Natural Awakenings August 2019 Edition by Natural Awakenings Magazine

E E FR H E A L T H Y L I V I N G

HEALTHY

PLANET

Parenting in the 21st Century Autism & PANS

Appreciation for Magical People

HEALING POWER of Relationships August 2019 | Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition | eNaturalAwakenings.com August 2019

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August 2019

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Contents

20 GROWING UP BILLY

A Conversation with Father and Son, Billy Blanks and Billy Blanks Jr

24 YOGA’S LOVE

CONNECTION Healing Poswer of Relationships to Transcend Trauma

28 21ST CENTURY PARENTING

Preparing Kids for the Future

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31 ANXIETY RELIEF

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

34 FAMILY MATTERS What Does It Mean to

Have a Child with Autism?

37 AUTISM’S GUT-BRAIN AXIS

A Promising Approach to Healing

42 GET CLARITY ON

YOUR SOULMATE Inner Work Can Bring External Joy

44 A FOREVER BOND

Connected in Life and After Death

45 ADAM’S HOUSE

Offering Grief Support for Our Children

Our Symphony With Animals

“Dear Hilda, my close friends have noticed a major improvement in my face with only one treatment! I love that this is holistic and non-invasive. I trust you completely!” Tara 8

Balancing Energy Centers Opens Expressive Paths

48 AYSHA AKHTAR ON

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FOR CHILDREN

DEPARTMENTS 8 news briefs 15 health briefs 16 global briefs 18 eco tip 20 wise words 22 community

spotlight 24 mastering yoga 37 healthy kids

eNaturalAwakenings.com

40 conscious

eating 46 naturally healthy pet 51 calendar 55 classified 55 resource guide 62 ad index 62 inspiration

Natural Awakenings is a family of more than 70 healthy living magazines celebrating 25 years of providing the communities we serve with the tools and resources we all need to lead healthier lives on a healthy planet.

28 40

Enter the flow of the River…

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FAIRFIELD COUNTY/ HOUSATONIC VALLEY PUBLISHER Nicole Miale MANAGING EDITOR Patricia Staino EDITOR Michelle Bense DESIGN & PRODUCTION Kathleen Fellows Erica Mills CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Karenna Alexander Suzy DeYoung Ariana Fine Shannon Marzella Debbie Pausig Maria Rickert Hong SALES & MARKETING Nicole Miale Lisa Toczko SOCIAL MEDIA Amy Hass WEBSITE Erica Mills DISTRIBUTION Man in Motion LLC

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CEO/FOUNDER Sharon Bruckman COO/ FRANCHISE SALES Joe Dunne NATIONAL EDITOR Jan Hollingsworth MANAGING EDITOR Linda Sechrist NATIONAL ART DIRECTOR Stephen Blancett ART DIRECTOR Josh Pope FINANCIAL MANAGER Yolanda Shebert FRANCHISE SUPPORT MGR. Heather Gibbs WEBSITE COORDINATOR Rachael Oppy NATIONAL ADVERTISING Kara Cave Natural Awakenings Publishing Corporation 4933 Tamiami Trail N., Ste. 203 Naples, FL 34103 Ph: 239-434-9392 • Fax: 239-434-9513 NaturalAwakeningsMag.com © 2019 by Natural Awakenings. All rights reserved. Although some parts of this publication may be reproduced and reprinted, we require that prior permission be obtained in writing. Natural Awakenings is a free publication distributed locally and is supported by our advertisers. Please call to find a location near you or if you would like copies placed at your business. We do not necessarily endorse the views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the products and services advertised. Check with a healthcare professional regarding the appropriate use of any treatment.

letter from publisher

o matter who you are, on a daily basis you navigate your way through a series of interactions with the world around you. We can choose to have either a fleeting or a deeper connection to virtually everything we come in contact with. You can drive by the turtle in the road or you can choose to help it across. These small moments in each day compound, and together they form our relationship to the world around us. The quality, depth and health of our relationships can Nicole Miale either provide a pulsing cord energizing an active and vibrant life, or signal a more stagnant and perhaps lonely state. The truth is, most people experience both ends of that spectrum—and many points in between—during their lives. People, places, foods, animals, and more weave in and out of our fields during the course of years, sometimes without regard to our preferences. If we adapt successfully, we are more likely to maintain that energetic and pleasing experience. If we resist the changes or lack the resilience to cope, we may find ourselves in the more isolated and disappointed camp. The good news is that we have the ability in any given moment to shift our relationships. It can be a simple thing, like deciding to appreciate a hot summer day by going to the beach rather than bemoaning the sweat and discomfort experienced outside. Or perhaps it’s joining a new group, attending a workshop, or visiting an expo or festival that will present opportunities to have new experiences, meet people and develop relationships. The possibilities are endless. We have the power! This month’s edition looks at the tapestry of relationships in human experience, from relationships between parent and child, soulmates, loved ones who have passed, animals and even the effect food can have on us. We particularly shine a compassionate light on families that may include one or more individuals who are autistic or atypical, the “magical people,” as Berta Prevosti describes in her piece. Yes, the dynamics can be difficult at times, but as contributor Roseann Capanna-Hodge writes, “While the needs of a child with autism may complicate all relationships, especially with siblings, so many of these siblings offer amazing love and support in return. Often, their compassion knows no bounds, and their lives have been enriched by the love and challenges they’ve experienced.” I love that sentiment. Honestly, I wish it was something that could be said of every personal interaction. I would put it this way: While the needs of humans in relationship are admittedly complicated, our love and compassion for each other knows no bounds, and we are made the better for the challenges we face together. What a beautiful world we would inhabit if this were the reality! As contributor Karenna Alexander explains, you can’t attract what you desire until you’re clear about what you want. If we can all hold the vision for loving, healthy relationships, then more of them will be created! It may be that simple. I’m game… how about you? Let’s hold that intention! With love and light,

Natural Awakenings Magazine is ranked 5th Nationally in CISION’S® 2016 Top 10 Health & Fitness Magazines

See our display advertiser index on page 62, making it easier to find the resources you need.

Natural Awakenings is printed on recycled newsprint with soy-based ink.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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August 2019

meditation, reiki, massage, musical events, and more. newsOptional briefs rental spaces include a large open room and/or an intimate Sacred Rental in Ridgefield private roomSpace with massage/reiki table.

he Angel Cooperative in Ridgefield has announced the opening of Angel Wing, a divine spiritual center located next door to the inspirational boutique. The 49 Ethan Allen Hwy for (Rtpractitioners 7), Ridgefield, Angel Wing is available to rent on anCT hourly, daily, weekly or monthly basis to hold group/individual practice ocated next door to The Angel Cooperative) sessions, workshops, classes and retreats, or for any therapeutic N GEsessions LCOOP.COM including yoga, meditation, Reiki, massage, or musical events. Rental spaces include a large open room and an intimate, private room. The owners’ intent is to create a shared sacred space for spiritual practice of all types. The rental fee of $30 per hour includes WiFi, props for 10 people (for use in the large room), a massage/Reiki table (for use in the private room), and a single use bathroom. Payment is due at the time of booking. The Angel Wing also offers a number of free workshops and events as well as recurring yoga classes, including open level flow, deep stretch and relaxation, chair yoga, yin yoga, easy flow asana, and Primary Series Ashtanga, on a weekly basis. Yoga classes cost $19 – 20 per session. For more information, call 203-431-2959, email AngelCoop@ yahoo.com or visit TheAngelCoop.com/home. Location: 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rte. 7), Ridgefield. See ad, page 14.

Microschool Workshop to Revolutionize Learning

orkspace Education, Microschool Revolution, and the Birch School will host a two-day “Create a Co-learning Community or Microschool” workshop, in Bethel, on August 5 and 6. The sessions will enable attendees to interact with successful school creators; envision and pitch their own ideas to the Workspace Education founders; and launch a deep dive into specific areas of interest with the hosting organizations’ staff and members. Co-learning is a growing educational trend that incorporates corroborative and project-based learning in a space designed to promote working in teams and across disciplines to design and execute amazing projects. Workspace Education is a not-for-profit that comprises a co-learning community of families and professionals working together to co-create the most effective individualized learning tracks for children. More than a project-based education center, Workspace Education is also host to Acton Academy, a standalone microschool specializing in developing agency, character development, and executive functioning skills. The workshop, which costs $250 per person, will help parents and educators imagine the possibilities and create a customized education pathway for their children and students. Teams from across the country will come together to envision their dream educational spaces. For more information, email Cath@WorkspaceEducation.org. Location: Workplace Education, 16 Trowbridge Drive, Bethel.

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We treat the following conditions: ADHD / ADD / Executive Functioning Anxiety & Anxiety-Related Disorders Autism Behavioral & Social Issues Chronic Pain / Fibromyalgia Concussion / TBI Depression / Mood Issues Learning Disability / Dyslexia Lyme, PANDAS/PANS Chronic Health Conditions PTSD / Trauma Seizures Sleep Problems

Adolescent Addiction Specialist Opens Practice

iesa Minakan, LCSW, an adolescent addiction specialist, recently opened her practice in Ridgefield. With more than 15 years of experience in the psychotherapy Riesa Minakan field—including extensive clinical experience—Minakan utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to treat issues such as low selfesteem, depression and anxiety. She also incorporates dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) skills into treatment. This approach is particularly effective with teenagers and middle-schoolers suffering with eating disorders, self-harm, addiction, depression and anxiety. “I provide a loving and caring therapeutic environment,” she says. “I recognize that people need both a seasoned professional and a caring, compassionate person on their side. It takes a certain kind of person to connect with middleschool children and teenagers.” Minakan is also trained in multidimensional family therapy (MDFT), a treatment that she says works well for healing relationships between family members by increasing the communication within the family dynamic. She uses this therapy often with issues of addiction. She is also trained to practice eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, which has proven very effective in dealing with trauma. “Many times, parents have told me they’ve taken their child to multiple therapists, but their child couldn’t connect with any of them," Minakan says. "In therapy, children need transparency and demonstrated caring; this is how I encourage connection and growth with them." For more information, call 203-391-8578. Location: 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 202, Ridgefield.

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August 2019

news briefs

Ancient Crystal Skull Synergy Comes Back to CT

n August 14 and 18, Sherry Whitfield, caretaker and guardian of Synergy the Ancient Crystal Skull, from Tucson, AZ, will Sherry Whitfield be offering two workshops in Sandy Hook, and Synergy creating opportunities for more people to experience powerful healing. Synergy and Whitfield have been featured on the History Channel show Ancient Aliens, in the episode on crystal skulls, and have also been written up in numerous books and websites on that topic. At 7pm on August 14, Whitfield and Synergy will offer a special drumming circle and workshop called, “Laugh at Your Fear!” This experience creates a sacred space designed to help participants face their fears head on—by laughing at them. Attendees can expect to raise their spiritual vibrations to feel lighter, inspired and motivated to move forward in their personal journey. They will feel uplifted and empowered to rise above the obstacles holding them back. The event will take place at River’s Edge Healing Center in Sandy Hook and costs $45 per person. On August 18 from 10:30am to 6pm, Whitfield and Synergy will hold a full-day workshop on creating crystal grids, called “Creating a Crystalline Grid: How Do They Really Work?” This is a highly interactive, day-long workshop that will help attendees create the most effective crystalline grids possible, as they learn what works, what doesn't work, and why. They will learn to align their intentions and energies and connect their grids into the field and grid systems, as they activate their designs. A grid that is connected and truly activated is enormously more effective than one that stands alone. Sample grid possibilities and combinations will be offered. This event also takes place at River’s Edge and the cost is $185 per person. For more information or to register, contact Deana Paqua by email at Deana.Paqua@gmail.com or via phone/text at 203-994-5045. Location: River's Edge Healing Center, 5 Riverside Rd, Sandy Hook. See ad, page 16.

Cohousing Community's Green Homes for Sale

ocky Corner Cohousing, an organic farm-centered neighborhood located in Bethany, has begun its active construction phase, with only a few homes left for sale. Thirty comfortable, privately owned, self-sufficient homes and a large, shared common house with facilities for shared meals and other community resources are clustered in the center of a 33-acre former dairy farm. Cohousing is a proven community design with more than 165 neighborhoods established throughout the U.S. and construction of another 140 underway. Rocky Corner is the first in the tri-state metro area. Rocky Corner Cohousing’s mission is to “create a balance between independence and interdependence.” The community is governed through a sociocracy system, in which decisions are made through consent after discussion by neighbors rather than majority voting. Work is divided by a variety of committees, which any community member is welcome to join. Rocky Corner’s buildings are energy-efficient, with passive and active solar design; air-source heat pumps for heating and cooling; tight envelopes with high-R-value insulation; and smaller footprints. The community’s motto is “consume less, share more,” which it achieves by sharing the land for growing and conservation; sharing vehicles and tools; preparing meals together; and working together to create and maintain the community. Homes range in size from one to three bedrooms. For more information about joining the community, attending an info session or touring the construction site, call 203-903-2646 or visit RockyCorner.org. See Community Resource Guide listing, page 57.

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Statewide Holistic Expo Call for Vendors

he statewide Holistic Expo, to be held Sunday, October 27 from 10am to 4pm at The DoubleTree by Hilton in Bristol, is currently seeking vendors and speakers for the event. The benefit holistic fair, presented by Holistic Community Professionals, will feature 75 vendors and readers, free raffles and a grand prize—a Hilton overnight stay for two. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with more than 75 vendors and exhibitors as they learn about available resources promoting healthy living. Visitors will have the chance to gain inspiration by visiting booths and participating in scheduled events, including a keynote speaker and speakers on multiple topics during the day. Door proceeds will be donated to the CT Children’s Medical Center (ConnecticutChildrens.org) and Hartford Hospitals Integrative Medicine Angie’s Spa fund (AngiesSpa.org). All funds will be used directly for patient care and will be matched to the maximum allowed by the grants for each organization. Natural Awakenings is proud to be a member of the Holistic Community Professionals and a sponsor of the two statewide expos held each year. Interested vendors can apply online at YourHolisticEvents.com. For more information, call Shirley Bloethe at 860-989-0033, email YourHolisticEvents@gmail.com or visit ShirleyBloethe.com. Location: DoubleTree by Hilton, 42 Century Dr, Bristol.

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www.victoriashawintuitive.com VictoriaShawPsychotherapy.com • VictoriaShawIntuitive.com 203-254-3403 •• vfshawphd@gmail.com 203-254-3403 vfshawphd@gmail.com

Ecologically Responsible Services

Safe Solutions To Protect Your Family from Tick and Mosquito-Borne Diseases! The folks at Country Tick & Mosquito understand your concerns and can be trusted to give honest advice on chemical and organic services at your home. • Organic treatments for those who have small children, outdoor pets, or vegetable gardens. • Pesticide-based products that would provide some residual control for wooded areas and wetlands with a lot of wildlife.

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Call 203-880-5888 to obtain a free property evaluation. With four CT DEEP licenses and a Northeast Organic Land Care Accreditation, Paul Saltanis, owner and operator, has over 40 years of experience dealing with outdoor pests. He understands and respects your concerns. countrytickandmosquito.com • info@countrytickandmosquito.com 431 Pepper Street, Monroe, CT 06468 • 203-880-5888 August 2019

Psychic Fair at The Ruby Tree

news briefs

Oddstock Music Festival in New Milford

ounded in 2013, Oddstock is an annual charity music festival held at the Good Shepherd Lodge in New Milford. The event showcases some of the area’s best local artists and musicians in a relaxed atmosphere, as well as a wide selection of local vendors, entertainers, food and more. Proceeds from the event support the local branches of both the Alzheimer’s Association and the Multiple Sclerosis Society. This year’s event takes place August 23 and 24, from 1pm to 3:30am. Day passes are $10, night passes are $5 (camping is allowed), and a pass for two days and the overnight is $25. For more information, visit Facebook.com/OddstockCharitable MusicFestival. Location: Good Shepherd Lodge #65, 25 Danbury Rd, New Milford.

he Ruby Tree will host their popular quarterly psychic fair on Sunday, August 4 from 11am to 4pm. A unique metaphysical shop with holistic practitioners and a yoga studio, The Ruby Tree has been open in Woodbury for nearly three years. The Meet The Psychics fair is an insightful and often rewarding opportunity to meet many of the readers that are regularly at the shop as house readers and/or for special events and workshops. This timed event offers 15-minute readings for $20, priced so each attendee will be able to try out a few. The event will also feature refreshments, a raffle and local vendors in addition to the usual array of shop merchandise. The next Meet the Psychics Fair will take place October 27 from 11am to 4pm. For more information or to schedule a reading(s) ahead of time, call 203-586-1655 or email Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com. See ad, page 23.

This Medicine of the Future is Here Now! prp (platelet rich plasma), peptides, and Stem Cell therapy Dr. Henry Sobo offers you these cutting edge technologies: prp - platelet rich plasma A natural and safe, non-surgical method for healing: • PRP for Hair Restoration • PRP for Arthritis/Joints • PRP for Erectile Dysfunction

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Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

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Poolside Concert in Redding

ome on in, the water’s fine for the Bowls, Bodies and Water poolside concert at Open Sky Yoga Barn (OSYB) in Redding. The event, co-sponsored by OSYB and Crystal Cymbalogy, takes place August 13 at 7:30pm. Float in bliss while enjoying the celestial sounds of bowls, drums and voice under the open sky. Crafting soundscapes, sound artists Cynthia and Rick Quintanal of Crystal Cymbalogy create intentional sounds to lead attendees into a state of present awareness, using crystal sounding bowls, drums and voice. Afterward, enjoy a candlelight walk through the labyrinth. Tickets are $25, and attendees should bring a bathing suit, towel and a chair.

Family and Child Psychotherapy

For more information and to purchase tickets, email CWheels33@me.com or visit OpenSkyYogaBarn.com/product/ bowls-bodies-water-poolside-concert. Location: 95 Cross Highway, Redding.

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Pet CPR Class and Fundraiser

o you know how to help your pet in an emergency? Join Paws n Claws 911 in Woodbury, on August 11 from noon to 4pm, for a highly interactive hands-on training to learn how to help your four-legged family members in a variety of emergency situations. Intended for pet parents, pet care professionals and animal rescue volunteers, this class—which promises a “no-death-byPowerPoint” experience—is taught by a seasoned pre-hospital care provider and educator with more than 25 years of experience administering these life-saving skills to two- and fourlegged patients. No prior experience or training is needed. During the four-hour class, attendees will practice emergency muzzling, canine and feline CPR, conscious and unconscious choking management, bleeding control and more. The class is a fundraiser to benefit Brass City Rescue Alliance in Middlebury, a nonprofit animal rescue group that runs its own shelter and several feline foster homes that provide veterinary care, behavioral assessments and training before placing pets in their new forever homes. A portion of the $65 registration fee will be donated in support of its mission. Pre-registration and pre-payment is required, and up to five seats can be reserved on one registration. For more information, visit PawsNClaws911.com/register-online. Location: Nonnewaug High School, 5 Minortown Rd, Woodbury.

Robin Ordan, LCSW 203-561-8535

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news briefs

Calm Kids & Stress-Less Solutions

Teaching children practical skills to reduce anxiety

Diane Bahr-Groth CHy, TFTdx

Holistic Chamber of Commerce Chapter Opens in Monroe

Help their star shine!

Mind-Body Transformation Hypnosis Center

1177 High Ridge Road, Stamford, CT Mindbodytransformation.com 203 595-0110

51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rt 7), Ridgefield, CT PURVEYORS OF POSITIVITY

A Unique Lifestyle Boutique Featuring the first Shungite Room in the USA. HOME • BODY • SOUL

Introducing… THE ANGEL WING, A DIVINE SPIRITUAL CENTER The Angel Wing is available to rent for individual or group sessions, workshops, classes, retreats, or for any therapeutic practice including yoga, meditation, reiki, massage, musical events, and more. Optional rental spaces include a large open room and/or an intimate private room with massage/reiki table.

• Wide selection of crystals & jewelery • Candles, essential oils, incense & soap • Feng Shui & home decor • Spiritual gifts, statuary, decks, books & cards • Private & group readings, reiki, guided 49 Ethan Allen Hwy (Rt 7), Ridgefield, CT meditation, sound therapy & energy work (Located next door to The Angel Cooperative) 203 -4 31-2959 • THEANGELCOOP.COM

he Holistic Chamber of Commerce (HCC) has been growing in Connecticut since the beginning of this year. Fairfield County finally has its own chapter, as the Monroe Chapter launched in May. The chapter is growing as it gathers with local holistic businesses to network, support and learn from each other. Meetings are held on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30 to 8pm, at the Muktinath Holistic Center. The Holistic Chamber of Commerce (HCC) is a community coming together in support of a cause. A hybrid organization, the HCC includes international and local business, both online and in-person, bridging holistic/natural/sustainable solutions and more mainstream consumers. The HCC is devoted to bringing more holistic, natural and eco-friendly health and lifestyle solutions to the world around us, as well as better business-building practices. Using its website as a home base, it also “works” the major social media networking sites on behalf of its members to reach more mainstream consumers. The HCC offers the opportunity to network with other like-minded business professionals and is committed to offering tools and support needed to expand your business. Through an exclusive partnership with Natural Awakenings, there are also special marketing and advertising opportunities available only to HCC members in the area. For more information, search for the Monroe Chapter at HolisticChamberofCommerce.com. Location: Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Unit 121, Monroe.

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health briefs

Eat Plants to Live Longer At least one-third of early deaths could be prevented if people moved to a largely plant-based diet, prominent scientists from Harvard University Medical School have calculated. An international initiative, “Food in the Anthropocene,” published in the medical journal The Lancet, linked plant-based diets not only to improved health worldwide, but also to global sustainability. The report advocates a diet high in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes and nuts, and low in red meat, sugar and refined grains. “Unhealthy diets pose a greater risk to morbidity and mortality than does unsafe sex, and alcohol, drug and tobacco use combined,” it concludes.

Use Probiotics to Shed Pounds For the one-third of Americans struggling with obesity, new research on probiotics from the Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, in China, offers a promising approach. In a meta-review of 12 randomized, placebo-controlled studies that tested 821 obese and overweight people, probiotic supplementation was found to significantly reduce body weight, weight circumference and fat mass, and to improve cholesterol and glucose metabolism measures. Probiotics were administered in forms that included sachet, capsule, powder, kefir yogurt and fermented milk, in durations that ranged from eight to 24 weeks.

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ARE OFTEN THE ROOT CAUSE OF

INFLAMMATION?

D r M a r v i n S c h w e i t z e r. c o m 2 0 3 . 8 4 7. 2 7 8 8

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Climate change has inspired farmers to turn to regenerative agriculture, which pulls carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and stores it in their soil. Regenerative agriculture incorporates the practices of planting trees, cover cropping, no-till farming and rotational grazing. As the groundswell of support grows, 250 soil health bills have been introduced in state and federal legislatures in the last two years. At a U.S. Senate Agriculture Committee climate change hearing, Nebraska soybean farmer Matthew Rezac said that keeping soil healthy, not just reducing greenhouse gas emissions, was a key part of what farmers could do to cool a warming planet. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, the bills have different justifications, but they all focus on soil health. As disastrous floods and drought sweep away farmland, the idea that regenerative agriculture could make for more productive farming is gaining traction.

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Farmers Responding to Climate Change

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Floating Solar

Catching Some Rays on the Water

Solar panels currently generate only about 1 percent of our nation’s energy needs, but new research from the federal National Renewable Energy Laboratory shows that installation of “floatovoltaics”—floating, electricity-generating photovoltaic panels—on only one-fourth of our manmade reservoirs would generate about 10 percent of U.S. energy needs without taking up valuable real estate. Floatovoltaics cost less to install than traditional, land-based solar panels because there’s no need to clear land or treat soil, and research shows that the natural cooling effect of the water below can boost the solar panels’ power production by up to 22 percent. Of the approximately 100 current floatovoltaic installations, only seven are in the U.S., mostly at wineries in California and water treatment facilities. About 80 percent are in Japan, where limited land and roof space make water-based solar panels especially suitable.

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Deana Paqua, MA, LMT

global briefs

Bagging It

Coral Care

On Earth Day, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law a statewide ban on single-use plastic bags in retail stores that goes into effect next March. It’s estimated that New York uses 23 billion plastic bags every year, with 50 percent ending up in landfills and around cities and waterways. New York is the third state in which plastic bags are illegal, after California and Hawaii.

Critical habitat is threatened for 12 coral species in Florida, the Caribbean and the Pacific Ocean, while all corals worldwide are experiencing dramatic declines due to the impacts of climate change, pollution and overfishing. The Center for Biological Diversity, a Tucsonbased nonprofit focused on species protection, intends to file a lawsuit against the federal government for failing to protect coral habitat as required under the Endangered Species Act. Benefits of securing a critical habitat designation from the National Marine Fisheries Service include improved water quality throughout the coastal zone, limits on overfishing, protection of spawning grounds, reduced impact from development and dredging, and reduced human pressures on thousands of species that inhabit the reefs. Nearly 30 percent of all corals have already been lost to warming ocean temperatures and ocean acidification due to greenhouse gas pollution; scientists predict that the rest could be gone by the end of the century without help.

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Pollution Harms Mental and Physical Health

It’s well established that air pollution’s poisons and particles shorten lives, impair learning and increase risk for dementia. Now, a study published this spring in JAMA Psychiatry, which followed 2,232 children in Britain for 18 years, has found significant associations between exposure to air pollution and psychotic experiences during adolescence. Air pollution is believed to be responsible for 7 million deaths per year globally, according to the World Health Organization.

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Reefs to Get Their Day in Court

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August is prime time for camping out in the woods or at a music festival. Communing with nature or enjoying the beat outdoors for extended periods can stress the environment—but with proper planning, it doesn’t have to. The Association of Independent Festivals has launched its Take Your Tent Home campaign in the UK, according to Treehugger.com. The group is urging concertgoers to not discard their tents at venues and retailers to stop marketing camping gear as intended for single-use; festival organizers also have been asked to eliminate single-use cups, bottles and straws. In America, MindBodyGreen.com reports that carbon credits are being offered to help offset trips to and from Lollapalooza, in Chicago, from August 1 to 4. Pickathon, taking place on the same days outside Portland, Oregon, will have a free bike parking lot, as well as a dedicated shuttle for cars, plus no single-use serving ware. ChasingGreen.org advises campers to look for tents and related products made with recycled material and natural fibers like hemp, cotton, coconut husks and bamboo. Marmot, Lafuma, Sierra Designs and The North

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Face all use recycled materials in making their tents, including coconut shells, polyester, water bottles, garment fabrics and factory yarn waste. The website also suggests carpooling with family and friends, choosing a site that’s closer to home and packing light to reduce weight in the car, thus improving mileage. Also, if we bring trash into a campsite where there are no receptacles, leave with it. Don’t burn it in the fire, as that contributes to air pollution; instead, pack it up and dispose of it properly at home. Set up a method for collecting rainwater to use to wash dishes. EcoWatch.com recommends bringing unbreakable, washable plates, cups, utensils and napkins, a small basin or bucket, sponge and biodegradable soap, and a bag to store items that are too dirty to reuse. Stock up on batteries to power lights and lanterns or use solar power with a LuminAID light lamp. Follow the “leave no trace” motto: no litter, smoldering fire pits, ripped-up grass, crushed bushes or repositioned boulders. Stay on marked trails, never pick plants, flowers or berries, and never harm or disturb wildlife.

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203 TLC is a community of accredited health and wellness providers offering a wide variety of services and products. Founded in 1997 by Beth Leas, the TLC Tribe is Fairfield Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest holistic health resource - a vibrant and growing community of over 90 Members, committed to living consciously and offering healthy lifestyle opportunities. We offer high quality private sessions, products, workshops, classes and resources designed to help you live life well.

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Get to know us at TLCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s monthly networking breakfast! Looking for a relaxed group of professionals offering a supportive community, free networking events, many affordable marketing opportunities, and FUN? We meet on the first Tuesday of every month, at Valencia Luncheria, 164 Main St, Norwalk, CT, from 8:30 -10:00am. Come the first time as Beth's guest - and if you find your time with us worthwhile, we invite you to become a TLC Member. Please RSVP to Beth Leas at: 203-856-9566 (call/text) orTLCBethLeas@gmail.com so she can reserve your place. August 2019

wise words

Growing Up Billy

A Conversation with Father and Son, Billy Blanks and Billy Blanks Jr about Hard Work, Family and the Ultimate Goal

oth images are ingrained in our minds: Tae Bo icon Billy Blanks in his famous 1-2 punch pose and Dance It Out creator Billy Blanks Jr mid-air, a vision of athletic strength and elegance. For the first time in more than 20 years, father and son will perform together when they headline the 8th Annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo 2019, presented by WABC-TV with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner. The event takes place September 14 and 15 on the Boardwalk at Harbor Point in Stamford. Health, wellness, and positive lifestyle role models, Blanks Sr and Blanks Jr, recently shared details with Natural Awakenings about their unique relationship and roads to both personal and professional success.

Was there a desire to emulate your father during your younger years?

Your profession required you to travel extensively. How did you balance work with family time in those early years?

Billy Jr: Never. It always made me proud. It’s so special when you meet people whose lives were changed for the better because of your dad. I also learned so much from my dad’s discipline, hard work, and drive. My dad had it all, lost it all, and then gained it all again. Fame is not perfection.

Billy Sr: I got married when I was 18 and I did not know how to be a father. I took a lot of my cues from my own parents. Learning how to separate work from family time was my biggest challenge. But I was so determined to get out of the ghetto, work was a priority. 20

Billy Jr: While I liked karate, I always wanted to be my own person. I loved dancing and singing. I knew my life would include fitness since it was in my blood, but entertainment was my calling.

Did Tae Bo and martial arts help you bond with your kids?

Billy Sr: Yes, it was a great way for us to experience things as a family. We trained together, went to competitions together, and traveled together. It was a great learning time for all of us.

Growing up, did you ever wish your dad wasn’t famous?

When did you first become aware of your father’s fame? How did it affect you?

Billy Jr: Before my dad was commercially

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famous, it was so cool to walk into a karate tournament knowing that he was always going to win. He was like Rocky—no one could beat him. As a teenager, I remember being happy for him because I knew he was fulfilling his dream and reaching his goals. We were around a lot of celebrities growing up, so that made me even more aware of the world he was in and the status he had. But, as I got older, I would go to job interviews and get turned down because people would assume I didn’t need it because my dad was rich. I always made my own way, and there were times when I struggled financially. I remember losing a big Pepsi commercial gig because the casting director said the guy I was up against “needed the money more than I did.” I felt so defeated.

When did you first recognize Billy Jr’s talent?

Billy Sr: I started teaching him karate when he was 2 and I saw it right away. We even competed together in karate competitions all over the country from the time he was 5 years old until he was 12. He became a Junior Olympian, made the World Junior Karate Team, and landed a spot on the Billy Blanks Jr Tiger Force Team. There was no denying this kid’s talent.

What are some of the personal and professional father-son challenges you’ve experienced over the years?

Billy Sr: The use of the “Billy Blanks” name as a brand resulted in some challenging business issues between the two of us, when it was clear that Billy was well on his way to achieving great success. He even met that challenge with fierce determination: The “Billy Blanks” name was a reputable name, yet Billy established his own brand in the entertainment world, dancing and singing, and ultimately creating his own dance fitness program; he carved out his own niche in a world where I was the top fitness guru. This is

part of what makes Billy so great. He saw that I never gave up, and now he doesn’t know how to give up. I respect his talent tremendously. He’s even directed some of my YouTube workout videos!

In 2008 your parents divorced after 33 years of marriage. What effect did that have on you and your relationship with your father?

Billy Jr: I was estranged from my family at the time and found out about it from TMZ. I was in shock at first. I felt bad for them; after all they had done to build this empire and their relationship—for it all to be tossed away. I was angry with him for his poor choices and for hurting my mom. It took time for me to forgive him and to open up to his new life. Today, the personal and working relationship is strong. My dad made an appearance at the theater I ran, and I brought him in on my MoveTube Network project, which was awesome. We speak the same language, so when I direct him in videos, some things even go unsaid. He’s a pro and I respect him [for that]; and he respects me as a director and knows that I want him to look his best, which is really cool.

Which of your dad’s teachings do you bring to your relationship with your son Elijah, and how are you different as a father?

Billy Jr: I am very hard on my son—to never be lazy, to work hard, and to never give up. That’s the “Billy Blanks” mantra. I teach him to be his own person with no judgment. But my focus is making sure Elijah knows how much I love him—affection and sensitivity are what I offer him. I’m not afraid to be emotional in front of him.

You will be performing in Billy Jr’s home state, where he has established himself as an entrepreneur, performer, and fitness professional in his own right. How does it feel to see things come full-circle?

Billy Sr: It’s a blessing to see what he has established independently. And now I am given a chance, through the grace of God, to perform right alongside him. People will see that we are both gifted in our own ways. Working and growing up together, going through the things that we had to go through to make us better, and seeing each other from the inside out has been a

gift. I love my son from the bottom of his feet to the top of his head.

You and your father will be headlining the 8th Annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo together. What does this collaboration mean to you, and what can attendees expect to see and learn from you and your father?

Billy Jr: I have done the event as the headliner for four years. When I signed on to be a producer of this year’s event, my first idea was to bring in my dad. I am proud of all he has accomplished, and I feel his status is legendary. You can expect a solo class from each of us and then one massive class we do together, which hasn’t been done in over 20 years. This fullcircle moment will be an emotional one, that’s for sure. The 8th Annual Health, Wellness & Lifestyle Expo takes place on September 14 and 15, 11am to 5pm, and is presented by WABC-TV with special thanks to Stamford Health, Exclusive Healthcare Partner. For more information, call 203-531-3047 or visit HWL-EXPOS.com. Location: Harbor Point Boardwalk, 1 Harbor Point Road, Stamford, CT. See ad, page 7.

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What did you think when you first heard about a three-day yoga, wellness and music festival on the Connecticut River?

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SPIRIT FESTIVAL Immersion on the Connecticut River

rom September 13 through 15, Hartford, Connecticutâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s riverfront will be the site of a brand new experience: Spirit Festival, a three-day immersive event celebrating yoga, wellness, music and dance. Participants are invited to unite at the soul level with others who share the dream of a balanced, healthy and vibrant planet for all. This celebration will provide a safe and moving space

for discovering new paths to harmony, healing, creativity and community. Spirit Festival will feature a wide array of conscious teachers, practitioners and performers that will appeal to the novice and the experienced alike. Natural Awakenings caught up with Spirit Festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Program Curator Amy Sailor to find out what attendees can expect from the inaugural event.

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When I first heard about the festival, I did not think. Rather, I felt a strong sense of hope, anticipation and pride because of the roughly 350 towns and cities considered, the Connecticut River and Hartfordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Riverfront Plaza was selected as the locale for this event. I then envisioned a large gathering of diverse, creative, energetic, curious and caring souls engaged with one another in a safe, affirmative and simply beautiful environment. I imagined that as much as yoga and wellness practitioners value the offerings of more established venues, they might equally value an opportunity to contribute their respective expertise and participate in the creation of something new and unique to area. Indeed, the outpouring of enthusiasm, benevolence and support from yoga studios, practitioners and artists confirms my faith that this Spirit Festival will be all it is intended to be.

You have been spearheading the programming of yoga, presenters and musical acts. What has been your guiding philosophy? In my decades of practice as an educator and cultural professional, I am mindful that individuals naturally gravitate toward and revisit the people, places and experiences that affirm their sense of being in the world. In as much as we have come to rely on technology to maneuver through the complexities of practical living, we maintain the desire to be in fellowship with those who look and think like us even as we make new discoveries or add to our existing stores of knowledge. Having witnessed and experienced the transformative nature of spirit as expressed through music, art, movement, healing and yoga, I am optimistic that Spirit Fes-

tival will continue to evolve intentionally and sustainably for all who seek community, balance and well-being for all.

Reiki/AromaTouch/Shamanic Work Christina M. Boisits-O’Keefe, MS,CN, OM Owner of The Ruby Tree, Usui/Celtic/Crystal Reiki Master, Clinical Nutritionist, Shamanic Practitioner healwithchristina.com magic@healwithchristina.com 203-217-8902

Will this event be good for beginners who are just starting a yoga practice? This event is intentionally suited for all levels of practitioners. Classes for those new to yoga, including those with mobility issues, will be offered throughout the weekend. It’s important to note that the asanas, or postures, are but one way of benefitting from the practice of yoga. There will be a variety of modalities available by which participants of all levels and abilities can be guided into self-awareness, concentration, relaxation, play and pure fun.

What can people expect during the evening music programs? People can expect to hear, feel and move to an eclectic mix of music genres and performances. You may move in place for a Native American Stomp dance, “jack, jack your body” to some groovy house music, wind your hips to some Soca, Calypso and Reggae. You might even tango!

How does this differ programmatically from other yoga festivals?

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I think the more distinctive characteristics of this event can be experienced most in its connection to beautiful public park space, the flow of the riverfront and the pulse of a highly diverse and burgeoning urban environment. It represents the best of what our region has to offer. Spirit Festival will be held at Riverside Park and Mortensen River Park, in downtown Hartford. Spirit Festival is presented in affiliation with Riverfront Recapture and Bali Spirit Festival. Full weekend and one-day registrations are available. For more information and registration, visit SpiritYogaFestival.com. See ads, pages 5 and 27.

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Aldrich Art Museum Hosts LGBTQ Yoga Class

n Saturday, August 10 from 1 to 2:30pm, Susie Buckley will lead a special free class for LGBTQ community members and allies at The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum in Ridgefield. Whether you are a tried and true yogi or just yoga-curious, this is an opportunity for an afternoon of meditation, mindfulness and introductory yoga. Buckley is a certified Ashtanga yoga teacher with more than 10 years of experience leading classes for youth and young adults. This Sculpture Gardenbased session (weather permitting) is for any and all individuals who want to connect with members of the community while exploring yoga in a safe and inclusive environment. For more information, call 203-438-4519 or email General@AldrichArt.org. Location: The Aldrich Contemporary Art Museum, 258 Main St, Ridgefield.

Raising children is a creative endeavor, an art rather than a science. ~Bruno Bettelheim 24

Yoga’s Love Connection Healing Power of Relationships to Transcend Trauma by Suzy DeYoung

“Relationships are the agents of change and the most powerful therapy is human love.”

r. Bruce Perry penned those words back in 2006 when he wrote The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog, a book that would become a seminal influence on our understanding of childhood trauma. Thirteen years later, it appears Perry was quite prescient. While he wrote of the healing power of relationships on our emotional lives, the scientific community has since demonstrated the healing power of relationships from a physiological and neurological perspective. And this goes beyond their role in recovering from trauma to how positive relationships can help with de-

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pression, anxiety and other brain/mental health concerns. People have always known that it feels good to connect with our fellow humans. We are social animals. Our desire to connect is what keeps families, couples, friends and colleagues working hard to maintain relationships despite petty differences. When stuck, we may not know why therapy helps, but we know it often does, hence the tremendous value many people place on the relationship they have with a trusted therapist or psychologist. The exciting news is that science is catching up to what we know on an emo-

tional level: Researchers have found that connecting—sharing our stories, being “heard” and “seen” for who we are—does not just feel good, but it also impacts the neurons in our brains. Brain neurons are malleable and exhibit neuroplasticity, meaning that synapses can change and reorganize based on new learning. With the evolution of the field of epigenetics, we’re talking about bioplasticity, and how our biology and DNA can also change. This means we have the ability to upgrade our “software.” Perception can change the chemistry and DNA in the body. In other words, our body believes what our mind thinks.

The Newtown Yoga Festival: Experiential Transformation The emerging science on the healing power of relationships is at the core of why The Newtown Yoga Festival—now in its seventh year—is partnering with nonprofit The Avielle Foundation as part

of The Avielle Foundation’s Brainstorm Experience. The Newtown Yoga Festival was established in response to the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. The festival promotes well-being, health and community as a holistic solution realized through the transformative wisdom and practice of yoga by anyone and everyone. It is a way to honor lives lost, celebrate the strength and resilience of humankind and offer healing through compassionate practice, conversation and connection.

The Avielle Foundation: The Brainstorm Experience The Avielle Foundation is named in honor of 6-year-old Avielle Richman, who lost her life in the school shooting. Avielle’s parents, both scientists, formed the foundation in an effort to “prevent violence and to build compassion through neuroscience research, community engagement and education.” The Brain-

storm Experience, one of the foundation’s local efforts, is an ongoing series bringing the Newtown community together in a stimulating and engaging environment in which learning, connection and inspiration can provoke imagination as well as enhance understanding of the brain. These experiences bring a diverse group of thought leaders, advocates and celebrities from across society to Newtown to offer unique perspectives on the care, science, strength and vulnerability of the brain. Avielle’s father, Dr. Jeremy Richman, was a neuroscientist more than familiar with the workings of the brain. Through the foundation’s research, Richman worked to understand not only the risk factors present in the brain of a person prone to violence, but also the protective factors necessary for a person to choose compassion instead. A scientist through and through, Richman was not one to accept any

August 2019

therapy that was not “evidence-based.” His embrace of The Newtown Yoga Festival and its mission was swift and passionate because he understood the neurological protective factors offered through yoga, mindfulness, community, connection and education. Everyone involved with The Newtown Yoga Festival and The Avielle Foundation was shocked that a man immersed in these protective factors could die by suicide. Richman’s death in March illustrates that while we have learned so much in our quest to better understand and heal the workings of the mind, we still have more to learn. His loss has only strengthened the resolve of The Avielle Foundation and The Newtown Yoga Festival to continue Richman’s mission and life’s work.

Sharing Common Ground and Building Connections After the Sandy Hook shooting, an event took place called Community Connections: A Day of Shared Experience, in which families of victims of other mass shootings came to Newtown to speak to members of the community. Families from Virginia Tech, Columbine and the Amish Community, among others, traveled to Newtown and participated in breakout sessions. Though people found the planned sessions helpful, the surveys distributed following the event found that participants were most soothed by the opportunities to gather together in

Saturday, August 24, 2019 9am-4pm Newtown Community Ctr. 8 Simpson Street Newtown, CT 06470

presents

Internationally Known Yogis: Stephen Cope & Felicia Tomasko • • • • •

Tickets: $40 / $50 at door Under 16 is Free! Adult and Family Yoga Vendors and Live Music Bring Your Own Mat (and any blankets/props!)

www.NewtownYogaFestival.org 26

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the hallways between sessions and eat lunch together. Sharing stories and connecting with others in friendly settings is healing. With this in mind, The Newtown Yoga Festival works to not only facilitate connection but also, through its relationship with The Avielle Foundation, to help participants understand why they are connecting and how such connection impacts their brains and bodies. Earlier this year, CNN commentator Sally Kohn, author of The Opposite of Hate: A Field Guide to Repairing Our Humanity, visited Newtown as a Brainstorm Experience hosted by The Avielle Foundation. While researching the book, Kohn had talked to leading scientists and researchers who were investigating the evolutionary and cultural roots of how and why we demean and dehumanize each other. Their findings show that humans are wired to see those outside of their circle as “the other,” which historically served as a survival mechanism. To evolve, we must transcend, and to do so, according to another Brainstorm Experience speaker, Brené Brown, we must be willing to feel and sit with the discomfort and vulnerability that arises when we are faced with difficult relationships and people who may not share our politics, our experience or our perspective. Yoga and mindfulness offer a great starting point for understanding this discomfort; through these practices, we learn to move and/or sit through our own uncomfortable feelings only to come out the other side with more strength and clarity. From there we can move on to practicing sitting through discomfort in our relationships. The Newtown Yoga Festival has recognized from its inception the healing power of relationships. With headliners that have included Seane Corn, Ray Crist, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Hala Khouri, Stephen Cope and more, the festival has worked to bring people together to move, meditate, learn and connect within a safe space—so they can bring the peace they gain from the day back out into their day-to-day relationships. After interviewing and connecting with numerous perpetrators and victims of hate, as well as renowned scientists and clinicians, Kohn was asked what she had learned about the opposite of hate. She responded that the opposite of hate is not love; rather, the opposite of hate is connection. Suzy DeYoung is Director of The Brainstorm Experience in Newtown. Connect with her at 203-731-7557. For more information, visit TraumaInformedParent.com.. The Newtown Yoga Festival will take place August 24 in Newtown.

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PARENTING Preparing Kids for the Future by Meredith Montgomery

oday’s children have more opportunities to change the world than ever before. Teenagers are organizing global activism movements, LEGO lovers are mastering robotics and young entrepreneurs are launching successful businesses before they’re old enough to drive. But for Mom and Dad, this fastpaced, technology-driven childhood looks drastically different from their own. To help kids thrive, parents must learn to mindfully embrace today’s modern advances without losing sight of timeless virtues and skills such as kindness, creativity and critical thinking.

Finding Balance After-school hours used to be filled with outdoor free play in which kids independently developed their natural capabilities as self-learners and creative problem-solvers. The Children & Nature Network has reported that just 6 percent of children ages 9 to 13 play outside on their own. Instead, stress and anxiety are on the rise in our competitive culture as many kids attempt to balance heavy homework loads with an overflowing schedule of extracurricular activities. With the ability to connect to the world at our fingertips, Thomas Murray, director of innovation for Future Ready Schools, in Washington, D.C., notes that devices can also disconnect us from those right next to us. “It’s a massive struggle to find balance and mindfulness, but it’s vitally important. How often do we see an AP [advanced placement] kid that is 28

falling apart emotionally? As parents, we need to recognize that kids have a lot on their plate—more than ever before.” Salt Lake City-based Courtney Carver, author of Soulful Simplicity: How Living with Less Can Lead to So Much More, worries that parents are creating résumés for a life their children probably don’t want. On her BeMoreWithLess.com website, she focuses on living with less clutter, busyness and stress to simplify life and discover what really matters. “It’s challenging to maintain close connections when we’re overwhelmed with what’s in our inbox, or on Instagram or what the kids are looking at online,” she says. On her own journey to practical minimalism, she gained a greater sense of presence with her daughter. “When you can pay attention to a conversation

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Managing Technology The ubiquity of digital devices is a defining difference between today’s youth and that of their elders, making it difficult for parents to relate and know how to set boundaries.

It’s a massive struggle to find balance and mindfulness, but it’s vitally important. How often do we see an AP [advanced placement] kid that is falling apart emotionally? ~Thomas Murray

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21 CENTURY st

and not feel distracted and antsy, especially with young kids, that is everything,” says Carver.

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As senior parenting editor at nonprofit Common Sense Media, Caroline Knorr helps parents make sense of what’s going on in their kids’ media lives. “We can think of media as a ‘super peer’: When children are consuming it, they’re looking for cues on how to behave and what’s cool and what’s normal.” Parents need to be the intermediary so they can counterbalance the external messages with their own family’s values. Today’s devices are persuasive and addictive. “As parents, we need to set boundaries, model good digital habits and help kids to self-regulate more—which is our ultimate goal,” Knorr says. To raise good digital citizens, Richard Culatta, CEO of International Society for Technology in Education, in Arlington, Virginia, believes conversations about device use shouldn’t end with screen time limits and online safety. “Ask kids if their technology use is helping them be more engaged and find more meaning in the world or is it pulling them out of the world that they’re in,” he says. “Talk about how to use technology to improve the community around you, recognize true and false info, be involved in democratic processes and making your voice heard about issues you care about.” Parents are often uncomfortable with their kids socializing digitally, but Culatta encourages the introduction of interactive media sooner rather than later, so they understand how to engage with the world online before they are old enough to have social media accounts. Geocaching, which uses GPS-enabled devices to treasure hunt, and citizen science apps provide family-friendly opportunities to engage in both outdoor activities and online communities. “The majority of our kids will need these digital communication skills to be able to work with anyone at any time,” says Murray. He’s witnessed the impact of connecting classrooms around the world, observing, “When students learn to navigate time zones and language barriers to communicate and collaborate, they see that they can solve the world’s problems together.”

We need to create an intentional family culture where virtues like kindness and respect are talked about, modeled, upheld, celebrated and practiced in everyday life. ~Thomas Lickona

Raising Innovators “The world doesn’t care how much our children know; what the world cares about is what they do with what they know,” says Tony Wagner, senior research fellow at the Learning Policy Institute, an education research and policy nonprofit

in Palo Alto, California. In his latest book, Most Likely to Succeed: Preparing Our Kids for The Innovation Era, he emphasizes the importance of creative problem-solving and the joy of discovery, especially as more jobs become automated. “We’re born with a temperament of creative problem solvers. But then something happens. The longer kids are in school, the fewer questions they ask, the more they worry about getting the right answer and fewer and fewer think of themselves as creative in any way,” he says. “Instead of listening and regurgitating, kids need to learn how to find and be a critical consumer of information,” says Murray. Fewer employers are asking for college transcripts—including Google— as they discover the disconnect between what students are taught and what innovative skills they actually need. While most schools are slow to adapt to the modern needs of the future workforce, parents can proactively foster the entrepreneurial spirit and discourage a fear of failure at home by offering safe opportunities for risk-taking and independence. After speaking extensively with compelling young innovators around the

PARENT RESOURCES

Common Sense Media (CommonSenseMedia.org) provides education and advocacy to families to promote safe technology and media for children. They provide independent, age-based, media reviews for TV shows and movies. Each detailed review includes pertinent information for parents, plus talking points to foster critical thinking skills. Let Grow (LetGrow.org) seeks to restore childhood resilience by pushing back on

overprotection, and shows concern that even with the best intentions, society has taught a generation to overestimate danger and underestimate their own ability to cope. Its programs work with schools and parents to give kids more of the independence to do the things their parents did on their own as children—bike to a friend’s house, make themselves a meal or simply play unsupervised in the front yard.

The Choose Love Movement (JesseLewisChooseLove.org) offers a free so-

cial and emotional learning program for educators and parents. Students learn how to choose love in any circumstance, which helps them become more connected, resilient and empowered individuals. August 2019

Teaching Kindness In a culture that is obsessed with selfies and threatened by cyberbullies, it’s a tough task for parents to teach compassion and kindness. “We need to create an intentional family culture where virtues

When you choose love, you transform how you see the world from a scary and anxiety-producing place to a loving and welcoming one. ~Scarlett Lewis like kindness and respect are talked about, modeled, upheld, celebrated and practiced in everyday life. What we do over and over gradually shapes our character, until it becomes second nature— part of who we are,” says Thomas Lickona, Ph.D., a developmental psychologist and education professor emeritus at the State University of New York College at Cortland, and author of How to Raise Kind Kids: And Get Respect, Gratitude, and a Happier Family in the Bargain. Sesame Workshop’s 2016 Kindness Study found that 70 percent of parents worry that the world is an unkind place for

their kids, but Scarlett Lewis believes it’s all in our mind, saying, “When you choose love, you transform how you see the world from a scary and anxiety-producing place to a loving and welcoming one.” After losing her 6-year-old son Jesse in the horrific Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting, she attributed the tragedy to an angry thought in the mind of the shooter. Her compassion fueled the founding of the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Movement to educate and encourage individuals to choose loving thoughts over angry ones. “Although we can’t always choose what happens to us, we can always choose how to respond,” she says. The evidencebased Choose Love Enrichment Program teaches children to live a life with courage and gratitude, practice forgiveness and be compassionate individuals. While we don’t want to overwhelm kids with all the evils in the world, Lickona notes that it is valuable to make them aware of human suffering and how we can help. “Cultivate the belief that we’re all members of a single human family. Teach [them] that one of the most important ways to show gratitude for the blessings in our life is to give back.” Meredith Montgomery publishes Natural Awakenings of Gulf Coast Alabama/ Mississippi (HealthyLivingHealthyPlanet.com).

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world, Wagner discovered that their parents explicitly encouraged three things: play, passion and purpose. Their children were provided with many opportunities to explore new interests, as well as to learn from their mistakes. “The parents intuitively understood that more important than IQ is grit, perseverance and tenacity. You don’t develop that when Mom is yelling at you to practice; you develop it because you have a real interest.” To create a culture of innovation, Murray encourages teachers and parents to get to know the interests, passions and strengths of today’s children “and prove to them every day that they matter.” When that interest blossoms into a passion, it can lead to a deeper sense of purpose and a desire to make a difference. According to Wagner, this happens when parents and teachers instill one simple, but profound moral lesson, “We are not here on this Earth primarily and only to serve ourselves; we have some deep, profound obligation to give back and to serve others.”

Solar Plexus Chakra

The solar plexus is the seat of power. When a sensitive child has experienced a traumatic event, such as bullying, the death of a loved one or their parents’ divorce, they often hold it in their solar plexus, the space around the stomach. This can manifest as stomach pain and upset or can feel like a “punch in the gut” that doesn’t go away. The next time your child is upset, help them feel more in control by asking what they need, then offering it to them in whatever way possible. This allows them to identify their needs and advocate for them, a deep lesson for the solar plexus.

Heart Chakra

Anxiety Relief for Children

Balancing Energy Centers Opens Expressive Paths

by Shannon Marzella

t’s no secret that today’s children and teenagers are stressed out, overwhelmed and in need of some relief. This is the first generation to grow up truly immersed in the stimulus of technology, the pressure to succeed and mounting global and environmental concerns. For kids, especially sensitive and empathic children and teens, this can be a lot to bear. Experts have many opinions on how to help kids shoulder these burdens and handle the overwhelm, but based on the combined experiences of teachers, intuitives and Reiki practitioners, there’s evidence that working with the chakra system of children and teens holds the potential for transforming anxiety into peace of mind.

Root Chakra

Working with the root chakra can promote feeling purposeful, grounded and safe in the world. Nature is a true healer for the root chakra. Giving your kids time and space to be outside, run around barefoot and play can create a subtle yet powerful shift. The Earth’s energy can be felt if they simply place their hands on the ground, and the practices of earthing and forest bathing have become known as remedies to the modern dilemmas of too much electronic screen time.

Sacral Chakra

This chakra is the center of creative expression. Have you ever noticed a young child completely immersed in coloring or painting? Her sacral chakra is in alignment, placing her within the flow of her unique creativity. Give your children or teens the opportunity to make something with their hands—cooking and baking count, too. This energy center is all about free-form creativity, without the need to perfect a skill.

The heart chakra is the center of love, close relationships and safety. Creating a safe environment for an anxious child is critical and can help the child relax and feel nurtured and loved. You may want to carve out a space for them somewhere in your house that they feel is all their own. They can take ownership of this space, placing beloved items and pictures in it.

Throat Chakra

The throat chakra focuses on communication and speaking one’s truth. It can be difficult for an anxious child to articulate their feelings, especially when asked directly. Instead, journaling can be a wonderful way for some children to express themselves. Writing down their emotions clears the throat chakra and may make it easier for them to speak their thoughts aloud to a trusted adult.

Third Eye

The third eye centers on clear knowing and intuition. Meditation is one of the most powerful ways children and teens can tap into their inner self—and that doesn’t mean just sitting on a meditation cushion in silence for an hour. A walking meditation or a guided visualization can help kids feel stimulated while also tapping into their intuition. You may want to ask your child what their body is feeling—this can open up pathways into their intuition that the mind would never find.

Crown Chakra

The crown chakra connects to a greater presence or higher power. Sensitive children and teens may not be able to articulate their connection to something larger than themselves, but it doesn’t mean they don’t feel it. In fact, sensitive children often feel energy in themselves, in others and in the world around them. To expand this, children and teens can experience Reiki and other forms of energy healing that connect them with that expansive energy. Tapping into the body’s energy centers can provide anxious kids with welcome relief. These practices were common among our ancestors but have slipped away in our modern day and age. By incorporating them into your family’s daily life, you can lay the foundation for improved communication and connection, which is critical for supporting sensitive children. Shannon Marzella is an intuitive and a Reiki practitioner. She also has more than a decade of experience working with sensitive children as an English teacher in alternative school settings. She offers Reiki and readings for children, teens and adults at her home studio in Redding. For more information, visit WiseWomanLiving.net. August 2019

Is It Autism? PANS? Or Both? by Maria Rickert Hong

new peer-reviewed medical research article made a big splash in the autism community when it was published earlier this year. The study, “Beyond the brain: A multi-system inflammatory subtype of autism spectrum disorder,” by R.P. Thom, et al, published in Psychopharmacology, explores an immune-mediated subtype of autism that is characterized by systemic, multi-organ inflammation or immune dysregulation with shared mechanisms that drive both behavioral symptoms and physical illnesses. In other words, dysfunction in the immune system can cause the symptoms that appear as autism. In the recently published book, Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS, and Autoimmune Encephalitis, many of the practitioners interviewed stated that many or most children with autism also have Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome (PANS). The syndrome is a result of pathogenic infections crossing into the brain, causing a host of neurological symptoms. It used to be thought that the blood-brain barrier separated the brain from the rest of the body, blocking pathogens and dangerous chemical compounds from reaching it; recent research is proving 32

that is not the case. Researchers recently discovered that the immune system extends into the brain with cells called microglia, and they are subject to infection. A study in 2018, “Pediatric acuteonset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS) misdiagnosed as autism spectrum disorder,” by M.V.M. Goncalves, et al, in Immunology Letters discussed the overlap between the disorders. Any number of the following symptoms may be present in a child with autism, as well as those with other neurodevelopmental disorders including ADD/ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder or learning disabilities, which typically have common root causes: • OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) • Excessive anxiety, especially separation anxiety • Depression • ODD (Oppositional Defiant Disorder) • Tics such as hair pulling, eyelash pulling, motor tics, repetitive or compulsive coughing or throat-clearing when not sick • Excessive temper tantrums • Mood swings • Behavioral regression • Developmental regression • Sensory processing difficulties

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• Sleep problems • Gastrointestinal pain • Bedwetting • Severe food restriction • Anorexia • Decline in handwriting skills • Decline in math skills • Hyperactivity • Inability to concentrate • Head banging • Aggression • Refusal to go to school • Increased desire to be left alone • Seizures A breach in the blood-brain barrier can be caused by antibiotics; traumatic brain injury; toxins such as polysorbate 80; and exposure to electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs), including ultrasounds. The most common microbes believed to be involved in the development of PANS symptoms include, but are not limited to: • Mycoplasma pneumoniae • Group A Streptococcus • Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) • Babesia • Bartonella • Varicella virus • Influenza virus • Epstein-Barr virus • Herpes simplex virus It may be shocking for some to discover that peer-reviewed medical research studies dating back to the 1960s showed the connection between herpetic viral infections and autism. Most of these articles described how encephalitis from a herpes simplex virus caused temporal lobe damage that resulted in symptoms of autism. Another way to think of PANS, as well as any neurodevelopmental disorder such as autism, ADD/ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder and even learning disabilities, is that these disorders may fall under the larger umbrella of autoimmune encephalitis (AE), a disorder in which the immune system attacks the brain, impairing function. Encephalitis is inflammation and swelling of the brain, often due to infection, which in many of these cases causes an autoimmune attack on the microglia cells

of the brain. The research article, “N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antibodies encephalitis mimicking an autistic regression,” by Y. Hacohen, et al, published in 2016 in Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, explained this mechanism. It’s important to remember that the brain’s immune system may not really be attacking itself, but instead may be going after pathogens in the brain. Parents should be aware that PANS is a clinical diagnosis, meaning that a child’s blood test titer results may be negative, but they could still have the disorder based on their symptoms. Titer results for specific infections are not always indicative of an infection because titers often are only moderately elevated, or not elevated at all, in children with PANS. Typical tests that are run to determine a PANS diagnosis are: • The Cunningham panel • Serum ASO titer (Anti-Streptolysin O) • Serum ASDB titer (Anti-Streptococcal DNase B) • Lyme disease titers • Titers for specific viruses, especially herpetic viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus and herpes simplex viruses • Pathogenic bacterial infection titers, such as Staphylococcus aureus • Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection titers • Influenza infection titers • Heavy metals and other toxins Also keep in mind that, typically, there is not just one infection involved in PANS, so if practitioners focus on tests only for Lyme disease or PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections), the results could be inconclusive. Practitioners interviewed for Brain Under Attack noted that they typically see both viral and bacterial infections simultaneously, so be sure your practitioner looks at the whole picture. Maria Rickert Hong is a former Wall Street sell-side equity research analyst who is now a Certified Holistic Health Counselor, as well as the Education and Media Director for Epidemic Answers, a non-profit that lets parents know recovery is possible. She is the author of the bestselling book, Almost Autism: Recovering Children from Sensory Processing Disorder, A Reference for Parents and Practitioners, and the co-author of Brain Under Attack: A Resource for Parents and Caregivers of Children with PANS, PANDAS, and Autoimmune Encephalitis. She can be reached at MariaRickertHong.com.

LOCAL RESOURCE

onprofit organization Epidemic Answers has assembled a directory to help parents find a practitioner in their area who is well-versed in identifying these issues. The directory is available at EpidemicAnswers.org/practitioners/practitioner (select “PANDAS/PANS” in the search criteria), as is much more information about biomedical approaches for both disorders. August 2019

FAMILY MATTERS What Does It Mean to Have a Child with Autism?

by Roseann Capanna-Hodge

inda ’s intention was to run in and out of the mall to grab a pair of khakis for her oldest child’s choir concert, but her youngest, Alex, was transfixed, watching the elevator. Alex wouldn’t move. His hands were flapping, and he screeched with delight as he watched the glass elevator go up or down. Alex has autism, and every time Linda tried to pull him away, Alex threw himself to the ground. At 12, Alex was too big for Linda to nudge away physically, so the two were stuck at the elevator until the boy was ready to move. Passersby stared, but none offered to help; that didn’t matter, because

he is resistant to strangers. This can be the life of a parent of a child with autism.

Life Looks Different with Autism

All aspects of family life look different when it includes a child with autism. Parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents are each affected in different ways. The needs of a child with autism can be significant, and the family’s focus often shifts as a result. While running to treatments—occupational, physical, and speech therapy, neurofeedback, and many

more—can stretch a mom thin, since they help the child, she figures out how to make it work. Some families accomplish this by taking advantage of job flexibility or asking grandparents to drive a kid here or there. In fact, the parents who most successfully manage to get all their children where they need to go on a daily basis make full use of the “all-hands-on-deck” philosophy. Families without extended resources may struggle to get through each day. Aside from juggling logistics, behaviors like those exhibited by Alex can impact every hour of daily life, affecting other family members to varying degrees. Depending where they fall on the spectrum, children with autism can require a lot of attention due to their lack of independence, as well as medical or behavioral needs. Ideally, family and friends can pitch in to create a much-needed support network, while therapists, clinicians and others provide the additional care each family member will need.

The Emotional Impact of Autism

Parents of an autistic child may feel incredibly isolated and filled with fear and worry. A parent’s head often swirls with questions about today, tomorrow and the distant future: What will happen to Johnny tomorrow at lunch? Will the speech pathologist work on those IEP goals? Who will take care of Johnny when I am gone? These things keep a parent up at night. The constant process of searching for and trying new treatments can also be an

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emotional rollercoaster: Will this treatment be the one? I heard this provider is good, but is he too stuffy? Evaluating treatment options is challenging because, just as autism spans a spectrum, the needs and treatments are different for every child. There are also several commonly associated conditions, such as OCD, ADHD, anxiety, or PANS/PANDAS, which can make it even harder for providers to understand a child’s unique needs and recommend the right treatment. Additionally, friends and family may not understand the behaviors associated with autism, which can lead to stressful interactions. Frustration or even embarrassment about difficult-tomanage behaviors can take a toll on parents and siblings. Beyond family members, it can be challenging to find caregivers for a child with autism, making it harder for a parent to carve out time for much-needed self-care. There are many good organizations, such as Talk About Curing Autism (TACA), that can be a wonderful source of information as well as help families make connections with others seeking the same kind of understanding and support. It is so important for special-needs parents to be part of a community that understands them and their children. After all, if you try to explain to non-special-needs parents that you almost didn’t make it to the bus stop because Johnny’s socks didn’t feel right, they might look at you like you have three heads. It is critically important for family members, especially the primary caregivers, to take time for self-care every day, even if it is only a few minutes of deep breathing or reading. If you aren’t supporting your own mental and physical health, you won’t be much good to anyone else.

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Parents and Siblings Feel the Strain

As mentioned, the ongoing needs of a child with autism can lead to a whole lot of stress and worry. These can strain a marriage; understanding autism and managing its behaviors is one of the biggest sources of conflict couples face. Who can ever be fully equipped to deal with unending sensory needs, tantrums, arguing for services at IEP meetings, and keeping up with all those appointments? And what about supporting the other children at home? Siblings of an autistic child also experience a family’s stress. Parenting is never easy, but it certainly becomes more challenging when you have a child with greater needs; there are only so many ways you can slice the pie, and parents may worry that an autistic child’s siblings feel slighted that they aren’t getting an equal serving. Working with an autism specialist can help parents learn coping skills as well as how to manage behaviors, which can benefit the whole family. One important note: While the needs of a child with autism may complicate all relationships, especially with siblings, so many of those siblings offer amazing love and support in turn. Often, their compassion knows no bounds, and their lives have been enriched by the love and challenges they’ve experienced. While many parents worry most about the siblings of a child with

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autism, those children often demonstrate a maturity and understanding that translates into success as an adult.

Friendship and Social Rejection

The nature of autism is that one has difficulty connecting with others, so making and keeping friends can be hard. Children with autism need help connecting with peers—and sometimes even with adults. This may require a parent always be available to monitor and mediate interactions, which can be a source of frustration and worry, especially when younger siblings exhibit much more adaptable social lives. This may result in social exclusion for the parent as well. What people don’t understand, they fear. When a child acts out, it can make others uncomfortable, so neighbors and other parents may reject you and your child, excluding your family from events and gatherings. Other parents may not understand your quest to reverse your child’s issues through dietary restrictions, supplements and a long list

While the needs of a child with autism may complicate all relationships, especially with siblings, so many of those siblings offer amazing love and support in turn. Often, their compassion knows no bounds, and their lives have been enriched by the love and challenges they’ve experienced. of lifestyle changes: “What do you mean you don’t eat wheat and dairy? So, what do you eat?” No one wants to explain that 23 times at a party! There is a way to cope, however: Build a tribe. Connect with other special-needs parents and get together with their families. Creating your own support system with others who understand your child and family, while also building a social group for your child, is crucial to a happy family life.

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Acceptance and Understanding Ultimately, a family with autism needs acceptance and understanding from those around them—from family and friends, as well as teachers, therapists and medical providers. For those who work with autistic children, it is important to learn not just what autism looks like, but what it looks like for that one particular child and family. Autism is a spectrum, and while there are some common features, each child has unique gifts and needs. For parents, it’s critical to create a network of people who love and accept your children so your whole family will thrive.

Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge is an integrative and pediatric mental health expert with centers in Ridgefield and Newtown. For almost 30 years, she has helped thousands of children, individuals and families reverse their issues using proven holistic therapies. She is the co-author of Brain Under Attack: A Resource Guide for PANS/PANDAS. She can be reached at 203-438-4848 or Info@DrRoseann.com. See ad, page 8.

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healthy kids

AUTISM’S GUT-BRAIN AXIS A Promising Approach to Healing by Emily Courtney

ith the diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) on the rise—now affecting one in every 59 school-age children, according to estimates from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)—identifying effective, integrative remedies is more important than ever. “You may have five kids with ASD that are very different in how they present and what contributes to the disorder, so one size and one treatment does not fit all,” says Kenneth A. Bock, M.D., of Bock Integrative Medicine, in Red Hook, New York, author of Healing the New Childhood Epidemics: Autism, ADHD, Asthma, and Allergies. The Groundbreaking Program for the 4-A Disorders. ASD encompasses a range of disorders characterized by repetitive behaviors and impaired social skills and communication. Although it includes four distinct conditions, one of its hallmarks is how much it varies from person to person and how different the restrictions can be for each child. The very nature of the condition lends itself to integrative approaches that can be significantly effective, says Bock. “ASD is really a whole-body disorder that affects the brain, so a whole-body approach makes so much more sense.” From specialized diet and supplement regimens to a variety of alternative therapies, parents have a wealth of complemen-

tary options from which to choose. One integrative approach, however, is showing exceptional, research-backed promise: healing the gut.

The Gut-Autism Connection

Children with ASD frequently experience gut issues such as constipation or diarrhea; a review from the International Society for Autism Research indicated that nearly 47 percent of autistic children exhibited at least one gastrointestinal (GI) symptom. And, the more severe a child’s GI symptoms, the more severe the autism, according to a study in BMC Gastroenterology. Not coincidentally, research is finding that these digestive conditions and the accompanying ASD may be connected to the gut microbiome, an ecosystem of trillions of microbes living in the digestive tract. “Kids with ASD may have inflammation in the brain, and we’ve learned that it can be very much related to inflammation of the gut,” explains Bock. “The gut and immune system—which are intimately connected because the majority of our immune system is in the gut—are two of the most crucial systems involved in autism spectrum disorders.” It turns out that kids with ASD have less bacterial diversity in their guts than non-autistic kids, along with an imbalance between good and bad bacteria. This

dysbiosis of the gut flora leads to problems with improper immune function, inflammation and a leaky gut barrier. It all comes down to the gut-brain axis, by which the gut and brain communicate with each other. When the microbiome isn’t balanced, not only is this vital communication system broken, but toxins and pro-inflammatory molecules that trigger ASD-like behaviors can cross the blood-brain barrier. Experts say prioritizing gut health can relieve both GI issues and ASD symptoms.

Focus on Gut Health for ASD Care

For children with ASD, reinforcing the intestinal barrier and restoring balance to the microbiome can have profound health effects. “With dysbiosis and an overly permeable gut, inflammatory molecules can leak into the circulatory system, travel up to the brain and cross the blood-brain barrier, causing inflammation. A lot of it originates in the gut, so when we treat the gut, we can restore microbial balance, diversity and resilience to the ecosystem—and in doing so, decrease inflammation, help restore the appropriate blood-brain barrier and bring the brain back into more of a balance,” advises Bock. Before embarking on a treatment plan, Bock emphasizes the importance of working with a qualified healthcare practitioner to determine where a child fits in terms of subtypes of ASD, along with any other individual contributing factors. Although autism spectrum disorder is complex, using holistic strategies that address the whole body can make all the difference. “I see thousands of kids on the spectrum, and the vast majority of them improve with an integrative approach to treatment, and more and more kids are actually recovering,” notes Bock. Emily Courtney is a freelance health and wellness writer and editor living in northern Colorado. Connect at EmilyCourtney Writes@gmail.com. August 2019

MAGICAL PEOPLE A Spiritual Perspective of Autism by Berta Prevosti

nderstanding the commonly misunderstood condition of autism—and finding answers to the unanswerable—can be very difficult, especially if you are the parent of one of these magical people. They have come to show and teach us that so much of the suffering we experience in this life comes from ignorance about why we are here in the first place. Autistic Syndrome Disorder (ASD)

can be better understood by exploring why these magical people are here, as well as what we can learn from them. It’s all about growth; we, as human beings, need to grow. The longer we live in a world of aggression and abuse, we see more individuals returning to this earth to help heal others and guide them into a new stage in their cycles of life, death and rebirth—this is known as samsara. We all have chosen the lives we live for reasons

of spiritual growth as well as to burn off karma. Our souls consciously choose our lives and our parents, as well as the physical and mental conditions in which we return. People with ASD are a bridge between these two worlds, unique and loving beings here to spread love. Additionally, they are attached to a separate dimension, which at times allows them to appear as geniuses and at other times causes them to be unable to connect with others in the manner to which we are accustomed. We see them as “different” and, indeed, they are, but these beings are special because they have come here to teach us compassion, love, and understanding. Their role is to help us heal from the suffering we experience in this life or in other past lives. Autistic individuals are able to connect to or communicate with the higher self, and they do it as naturally as many of us connect to our lower selves. They are more connected to the spiritual realm than they are connected to the physical world in which they live. That is why they have a difficult time communicating with the rest of us. Mistakenly, it is believed that they inhabit a more internal world; rather, they exist on a more external/ astral plane, while we live a much smaller existence. They exist more in their upper chakras than their lower ones; this is evident in the number of autistic individuals that excel in mathematics, music, the arts and more. They have little or no concern for survival or sexuality, which is related to lower chakras.

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Parents of these children have no part in causing this condition in their children; rather the individual has chosen to be born with this condition and to their parents in order to stimulate the growth of all involved. The parents themselves chose a very difficult but most important life experience—that of helping these individuals live their magical existence. Autistic individuals are innocent, trusting and find themselves misplaced in this world where everyone else seems to be consumed by their own lives and agendas. In a sense, they live on an alternative plane. They always speak their truth; they simply do not know how to lie. They do not connive, and they cannot even conceive of willfully harming another being. They experience life on an intuitive level that other mortals can only imagine. People with autism are completely genuine, and experience everything in the present with no concern for the past or future. This makes them more empathetic and telepathic, traits associated with a higher frequency of spiritual development. Their existence was chosen at a soul level, so they can experience life in this specific environment. They choose the people and community with which they live, so they can teach others acceptance, non-judgment and compassion, and demonstrate that magic is possible. Many will need care from family and community, which offers the opportunity for unity and growth on so many levels. Throughout life we will hopefully come to understand these are magical and pure people. The world is an amazing and miraculous place where we have the ability to experience the magic of all of God’s creations if we suspend our judgment and expectation that we know the way things should be. Berta Prevosti, the owner of The Jiiva Center in Stratford, is a certified Reiki Master in Usui and Karuna Systems of Universal Hands on Energy Healing and a 500-hour certified yoga teacher. Connect at JiivaCenter.com. See ad, page 25.

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sleep. Food choices that boost GABA levels include fermented foods such as sauerkraut, brown rice, spinach, chia seeds, oranges and almonds. Recognizing the direct correlation between food and our mood, it is also essential to examine the benefits of micronutrients in our diet.

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FOOD, MOOD AND ATTITUDE

What We Eat Affects How We Feel

by Cindy Wechsler

e all know we need food to fuel our bodies and provide us with nutrients that keep our bodies strong, healthy and functioning at an optimal level. What is less well known is that the food we put into our bodies affects not just our bellies, but our brains as well. Research has shown that our gut and brain interact with each other and are intimately connected. This is known as the gut-brain axis, the biochemical signaling between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system. The foods we choose to eat can have a major impact on our physical well-being, as well as on our mental health. With the rise in ADHD, anxiety, autism, autoimmune disease and depression in kids, offering foods that promote brain development, positive mood and attention is critical. The food we feed our children has the potential to impact their mood and cognitive function. There is a proven biochemical relationship between food and mood that can be attributed to neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers that relay signals to the brain. Nutrients in foods are precursors to neurotransmit40

ters, and serotonin and noradrenalin, both considered “happy” neurotransmitters, are made from food. Many neurotransmitters are synthesized in both the gut and the brain, including serotonin, dopamine and gamma amino butyric acid (GABA). Nutrients necessary to support neurotransmitter synthesis include vitamins (especially Bs, C, D and folate), amino acids, minerals (including zinc and iron) and omega-3 fats, all of which can be found in the foods we consume. Serotonin plays an important role in happiness, restful sleep and a better overall mood. Foods that boost the serotonin levels in the brain include eggs, fish, turkey, mangos, kiwi, bananas, walnuts, flaxseed, chia seeds, sunflower and sesame seeds. Dopamine plays a part in regulating the brain’s reward centers, which involve pleasure and motivation. Dopamine levels also impact memory, mood, sleep and the ability to learn. Foods that boost dopamine levels include citrus fruits, berries, aged cheese, avocados, eggs and fish. Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) reduces anxiety and improves

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Carbohydrates are our body’s source of energy. There are simple and complex carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates contain more vitamins, fiber and minerals than simple carbohydrates. They are digested slowly, allowing for a steady state of energy in the body as well as improved brain function. Complex carbohydrates such as legumes, unrefined whole grains, fruits and vegetables tend to have a calming affect on the body and decrease the release of stress hormones. Simple sugars, on the other hand, are digested more quickly and cause spikes of glucose in the blood, leading to increased fluctuations in our mood, energy and concentration. Simple carbohydrates—found in processed foods, cookies, juice and refined grains—are known to cause brain fog, hyperactivity and decreased concentration. Initially they create a more revved-up feeling due to the spikes of sugar in our blood; however, we crash quickly.

Protein

Protein is an essential building block for muscles, bones, hormones and the brain. Protein optimizes brain function. Most proteins provide the body with B vitamins, iron, magnesium, zinc and other vital nutrients. Since brain cells communicate via chemical messaging, protein is necessary to produce neurotransmitters. The best sources of protein come from pastured, grass-fed lean meats including poultry and beef, as well as legumes, beans, eggs, cheese, tofu and fish.

Fats

Consumption of fats in our diet is important for providing energy, man-

aging mood, helping absorb vitamins and protecting the heart and brain. The brain is composed of cholesterol and fat, and the essential fatty acids we eat help to improve brain function. Healthy essential fats to include in the diet are unsaturated and omega-3s. Healthy fat choices include olive oil, avocados, olives, nuts, seeds, flaxseed, coconut oil, grass-fed butter, ghee and fatty fish. Research has shown that a diet rich in omega-3s may help to reduce symptoms of depression, ADHD, balance mood and sharpen your memory. Other studies report a deficiency in omega-3 fats, zinc and B-vitamins may increase the risk for a mood disorder. Research has shown that a diet consisting of whole foods can help stabilize mood. Starting the day with a wellbalanced breakfast that includes complex carbohydrates, protein and healthy fats has been shown to have a positive influence on mood and attention, as well as to provide the necessary energy needed to perform. Consider providing your kids with breakfasts that include eggs with veggies and whole grain toast with avocado, a yogurt smoothie with added fruit, vegetables and nut butter, oatmeal with collagen powder, fruits and coconut oil or homemade protein pancakes with a berry puree. Food truly is the first line of medicine. Research continues to prove that the foods we choose to eat can affect our bodies in a positive or negative way. Offering a balanced diet comprised of whole foods including all varieties of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, healthy fats and whole grains will keep your kids happy, focused and energized. Cindy Wechsler is an Integrative Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. She received her Masters of Science in Nursing degree from Yale University and has been treating children for more than 30 years. She specializes in the natural treatment of common childhood conditions. Connect at 203-916-4600 or CindyWechsler@ShalvaClinic.org. See ad, back cover.

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August 2019

Get Clarity on Your Soulmate Inner Work Can Bring External Joy

by Karenna Alexander

any women seek counsel from friends, therapists and dating coaches when they’re feeling despair over their love lives. They say they’re struggling to find “The One.” They believe they’re missing that special person in their lives, the one with whom they’ll have a deep connection and a spark. Often they think they need a matchmaker or a makeover.

Sometimes that’s true. Sometimes women only need to make a few external tweaks. Or maybe the divine timing’s off and their special person just hasn’t shown up yet. Other times, however, women may need to go to the “spiritual gym” for an inner workout. One of the key aspects of winning the inner game is women getting crystal-clear on what they want. When they are absolutely clear on the desired outcome, they have a better chance at manifesting it. If they can think it, it exists. There are several reasons clarity is a powerful tool in finding love. First, when women are clear on what they want, they get excited about their goal. Picturing the ideal lover on an ideal day can be thrilling and gives renewed hope that they exist. When searching for their soulmate, women should feel hopeful. In fact, it’s crucial to feel optimistic. It’s harder to find love when you’re in a low-vibe, wishy-washy space. Clarity also leads to confidence. When women are very clear on what they want, it’s easier to build a roadmap to get there. When they’re no longer confused about what they want, their day-to-day actions are filled with a purpose. Finding clarity on the ideal mate can also illuminate hidden fears and blocks. This is where we mine gold. These hidden obstacles are often blocking women from finding the ideal partner. For example, a woman who has been cheated on in the past may fear she’ll get cheated on again. She subconsciously may fear getting involved in another relationship, due to the turmoil she experienced the last time. Because of these fears, she may avoid singles-oriented events and forego online dating, which greatly lessens the chance of meeting her soulmate. Everyone’s blocks are different. Some struggle with a fear of betrayal. Others fear losing independence or having to compromise. Or they could be concerned about merging families. Uncovering and facing these hidden fears is half the battle. Once

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identified, women can start the process of working to get rid of them, sometimes with the help of a therapist or dating coach. Many times, people aren’t consciously aware of their fears until a professional helps them do the juicy work of feeling their ideal lover into existence. There are many tools you can use to get one step closer to your dream relationship. Vision boards—either digital or on poster board—can be a fun and useful way to get clarity about your dreams. So can visualization exercises. It’s possible to feel so good about this new clarity, women may find themselves dreaming more—while sleeping—about their ideal mate. These exercises also can help in identifying worries and blocks. Some women put together amazing vision boards that give them goosebumps, yet they also confess to fearing their vision won’t come true.

There are several reasons clarity is a powerful tool in finding love. First, when women are clear on what they want, they get excited about their goal. Journaling through worries and fears can help; journal about why you deserve a great relationship and why you’re worthy. If anything negative comes up, re-write the negative in a positive way. Don’t bury the pain, but after feeling the feeling, reframe it. For example, rather than fearing a cheating partner, rewrite the thought as: “My next lover will be faithful and loving.” Other tools include forgiveness and gratitude. Forgiveness often helps people leapfrog ahead, releasing blocks. Forgiveness doesn’t mean letting the person who hurt you back into your life. But it means you forgive so anger loses its grip, allowing yourself to heal. Gratitude is another helpful, clarifying practice that can be incorporated into daily life, by writing a gratitude list each morning. When people are filled with gratitude, they see the glass half full instead of half empty. They see an abundance of good partners out there rather than thinking there’s no one out there for them. When you visualize sunny and positive possibilities, you’re more likely to manifest a sunny and positive outcome. Get started right now with this quick exercise: What are 10 gratitudes related to your dating life you can think of right now? Write them down. The list can include items like: “Even though I’m reeling from a breakup, I’m glad I weeded out a horrible match,” or “I’m lucky I live in an area where I can meet single people,” or “Thank goodness for dating apps: Where else can I meet so many single people while never leaving the house?” Don’t you feel better already? Karenna Alexander is a dating coach based in Connecticut. She helps smart, successful women weed out time-wasters and find lasting love. Connect at CoachKarenna@KarennaAlexander.com or KarennaAlexander.com.

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August 2019

A Forever Bond Connected in Life and After Death

by Debbie Pausig

ife, love, death. They are chronological and linear, yet not finite. But the bond with a loved one after death is indeed “infinite”. Ask the person whose “love of their life” died in their arms, saw their “spirit” leave their body and ascend into the universe to find “their” place in the stars outside their window. They are the hawk at the entrance ramp of the highway guiding the day’s journey. They are the street sign with their name or initials that appear, or number combinations that pop up, or the name on a caller ID. Ask the mother whose child died, no matter the age, about the hole in the center of their being, whose energy manifests in synchronicity with a special feeling. Ask the adult child whose elder parent and “best friend” appears as an angel in cloud formation. What about the feathers, pennies from heaven, songs, birds (cardinals, hawks, hummingbirds), animals, butterflies, dragonflies, moved objects, recipes, books that appear out of nowhere, and so many more examples? If you speak about these things to a person who has not experienced the profound death of a loved one, they may look at you askance, as they don’t understand. In their book Hello from Heaven (1997), Bill and Judy Guggenheim researched the field of after-death communication, confirming that life and love are eternal. They identified the 12 most frequent types of after-death communication people report having with their deceased loved one: sensing a presence, hearing a voice, feeling a touch, smelling a fragrance, visual experience, visions, twilight experience, experience while asleep, out-of-body experi44

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ence, telephone call, physical phenomena and symbolic experience. In The Invisible String (2000), Patrice Karst created a simple story for children and adults alike that, “People who love each other are always connected by a very special string made of love. Even though you can’t see it with your eyes, you can feel it deep in your heart and know that you are always connected to the ones you love.” The intention of the story was to calm a child’s fear of being apart from the ones they love, but it serves a wider purpose in aiding those who would like to explain their sense of connection to someone who has left the physical plane. In Tuesdays with Morrie (2005), Mitch Albom quoted Morrie Schwartz: “Death ends a life, not a relationship. All the love you created is still there. All the memories are still there. You live on in the hearts of everyone you have touched and nurtured while you were here.” What connects us to a person that died? It’s the relationship and love. It’s all about love. This is not about romantic love, nor hedonistic wanting and desire perceived as love; this is a deep, caring connected love that transcends time and death. It is a forever love that was created in life that continues after death—a forever and continuing bond. In recent times, memorials are posted on social media platforms such as Facebook to connect the memories and photos of a dead loved one to the living. This type of online mourning and connectedness gives comfort to those left behind. Many photos of “signs” are posted that give the bereaved hope that the bond of love continues. Others may find journaling, writing poems or songs, or even authoring a book very cathartic. Creating a special email between the bereaved and deceased to share in cyberspace is another way to maintain communication, even though it is one-way. The use of all these mediums can be of great comfort as sorrow is put into words. A lady talking to a dragonfly perched atop an orange daylily is an illustrative example. That daylily was planted by her now deceased mother. The woman carried on, swearing her deceased husband was connecting with her through the dragonfly, which nodded its head, as she spoke into its eyes only three feet away. Dragonflies are regarded in some traditions as transitional creatures. We indeed are and will always be connected by an infinite invisible string because our loved ones are in our hearts and our memories. We continue to share stories that came from generations before. We create new stories in the name of our loved one. We have forged a forever bond, connected in life and after death. It is all about love. Debbie Pausig, MFT, LMFT, CT, is a licensed marriage and family therapist, certified thanatologist, grief counselor, national speaker, workshop presenter, Huntington’s disease support group facilitator, bereavement facilitator trainer and VNA Community Healthcare & Hospice bereavement coordinator. She is the author of An Affair Worth Remembering with Huntington’s Disease. Connect at 203985-8246 and DebbiePausigMFT.com.

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community spotlight

Adam’s House

Offering Grief Support for Our Children by Ariana Fine

n 2011, Allison Wysota’s husband, Adam, died suddenly at the age of 47 from a heart attack. In seeking help to cope with her own mourning, as well as the grief of their three young boys, she found that available support groups did not provide the continuity her family needed. Often, groups would have an open schedule where kids and parents could drop in. This meant Wysota’s children would form connections only to have to retell their story and relive their grief with new children when others stopped attending after a couple of weeks. She sought a closed-group program that had structure, stability and a longer commitment that would enable them to build trust, lasting connections and better support. After searching for an established Connecticut-based program, Wysota instead found inspiration in Olivia’s House, a decades-old grief-focused program in Pennsylvania. She decided to found The Adam Wysota Foundation’s Adam’s House (AdamsHouseCT.org) in 2017 as a local peer-supported grief and education center. Olivia’s House (OliviasHouse.org) continues to help the Adam’s House program with mentoring, curriculum and volunteer training. “Children lose a piece of themselves when someone close to them passes away,” says Sarah Domena, director of community outreach for Adam’s House. “All of sudden, they don’t have that sense of connection with their friends and peers because others don’t understand what they are going through. Adam’s House enables them to connect with other kids going through similar losses and emotions.” The Adam’s House programs are offered at no cost for children and their parents/guardians. The organization tries to put children with similar “situations” together in groups if possible,

such as those grieving a sibling who passed away. In this closedended education model, families are interviewed by staff and specialists before committing to the program to better understand their situation. If additional therapy or grief counseling is needed, Adam’s House’s professional staff will refer out to other organizations and practitioners. The organization’s professional staff has expertise in counseling, social work and education, so they oversee group volunteers. Groups are led by FIGs, or “Friends in Grief,” who undergo a three-day volunteer training session to learn how to ensure that the group sessions are peer-led. Many volunteers are parents of children who have undergone similar trauma or work in the fields of health care, social services or education. FIGs gain additional knowledge about how children deal with the grieving process and how to provide them with a comfortable, safe place to express themselves. Each program night, the families get to know each other over dinner. Afterward, while the children are upstairs in ageappropriate groups, the adult parents, grandparents, guardians or caregivers have their own peer support group downstairs. They learn ways to offer support to the grieving children and how to model their own grief in an age-appropriate manner. As part of the curriculum, game, art, music and play activities focused on each week’s theme encourage the children to share thoughts and emotions related to their grief. With the two-month commitment model, the group members feel more secure and safe to reveal their grief to new friends. To inspire a point of relevancy and connection with the children, the adults work on a similar weekly project. For instance, during the memories-focused week, both groups create a box with pictures and mementos about the person that passed away. It was meant to spark a conversation about what was included in the boxes, why it was important and how it makes each of them feel, says Domena. The organization even has a space where children can record video messages to those they have lost or to express their emotions in a safe environment. After the eight-week program, every program alumnus is invited to connection events two to three times a year to continue to receive support. Adam’s House also offers the Moving Forward Social Group for Widows and Widowers. There are volunteer opportunities available for FIGs, professional service providers, community ambassadors and others to help with the organization’s support mission. Adam’s House is located at 241 Coram Ave, Shelton. For more information, call 203-518-2808, email AdamsHouseCT@gmail.com or visit AdamsHouseCT.com. Adam’s House is holding a fundraising event with Francine Clausen, a psychic medium, during the weekend of September 28. Group and individual readings will be available. Open to the public, tickets can be purchased at AdamsHouseCT.org. Ariana Fine is a writer and contributor to Natural Awakenings Fairfield/Housatonic Valley. She resides in Stratford with her family. August 2019

naturally healthy pet

The Monthly Naturally Healthy Pet Section Starts Here!

The Power of Choice

Let Potential Pets Size You Up Too by Carrie Brady

ou can’t choose your family, but at least you can choose your pets. Before meeting new animals, people usually narrow their preferences down to a general type (mammal or snake?) and then a species (dog vs. goat, for example). Once these key decisions have been made, however, keeping all options open—for both you and the animals you meet—can help you find a wonderful new addition to your family.

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Considering breeds is an important part of the selection process, because different animal breeds have unique characteristics and needs. As you reflect upon the characteristics you are looking for in an animal, give equal time to reflecting on what the animal will need from you. Be honest with yourself about the resources, including time, that an animal requires. A young dog from a very active working breed, such as a collie, will require more of your attention than an older golden retriever who may be willing to spend most of the day just sitting near you. Note the common underlying characteristics of your chosen breeds in terms of temperament, size, attitude, energy level, behaviors, etc., and use those as your guide in selecting an animal rather than just the appearance of the specific breeds. Reflect on which characteristics are truly essential and which are less important to you.

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Take Your Time When you’re looking for love, you might walk into a room, scan the sea of people and spot an individual that looks exactly as you imagined—beautiful eyes, right height and gorgeous hair. You may approach, make small-talk for about five minutes and decide you are going to marry this person. This is not a good way to pick a mate, and it’s not a good way to choose a pet: making quick decisions based primarily on looks, rather than taking some time to get to know the personality that makes them a unique being, does not bode well for a happy long-term relationship. When you walk into a room full of animals, let your eyes wander and observe which animals immediately stand out to you. Then scan the room again slowly, taking the time to listen to your intuition. Be sure to notice which animals catch your interest on this second scan, even if you don’t understand why. Spend some time with all the animals, and observe how they interact with you, as well as how they interact with each other. Have your list of behaviors and characteristics available so you can ask questions to determine whether the animals meet your essential criteria. Once you’ve narrowed the options down, spend time privately with each animal. Take some deep breaths and notice how they respond. Are they tuned into

you or paying attention to something else? If you are meeting only one animal, rather than a roomful, pay close attention to how your body feels when you first meet the animal. What is your initial gut reaction? What is the animal’s initial reaction to you? Don’t talk yourself into choosing an animal that doesn’t feel right to you, but also don’t reject an animal that feels right simply because the animal doesn’t look the way you imagined. Take your time getting to know the animal.

Invite the Animal to Come Home and Wait for a Response Once you’ve decided to bring an animal home, offer the animal an invitation and a choice. After vividly imagining the animal in the new environment and describing what that would be like, explain that you would like to invite the animal home as a member of your family, and ask whether they would like to join you. Observe carefully how the animal responds; do they come closer when you ask the question? If they walk away, are they headed toward the door to go home with you? If you step away, will they follow? If you are unsure of the response, ask the animal for a clearer answer and wait to see what happens next. If you need more clarity, you also can do a simple hand-question test. Put both your hands out in front of you toward the animal and ask if they would like to come home with you, explaining that one hand means yes, while visualizing the animal

coming home with you, and that the other hand means no, while visualizing yourself leaving without the animal. See if the animal touches one of your hands. Then repeat the process to validate the answer, but switch which hand means yes and which means no.

Continue Offering Choices to Your New Family Member When you find an animal that wants to join your family, ask if they are ready to go or if they need a chance to say goodbye to the other animals and people they are leaving. Offering the animal a few minutes sends a powerful message that you are listening to them, not just telling them what to do. When you get home, continue offering choices whenever you can, such as what, where and when they eat, the way they like to be touched and groomed and where they like to sleep. Be observant. As your new pet is learning your language, work to learn theirs. Animals are always communicating with us and will appreciate your efforts to give them choices, as well as your efforts to respond to their preferences. Carrie Brady is the creator of Possibilities Farm in Wilton, where she partners with horses in innovative non-riding programs for personal growth, professional development and wellness. The horses are true partners who co-design and choose to participate freely in every program. For more information, visit PossibilitiesFarm.com. See ad, page 33.

Final Journey,

LLC

( Pet Euthanasia Service )

Kristen Klie, D.V. M. and Associates

( 203 ) 645-5570 www.finaljourneyllc.com

Pets are humanizing.

They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life. ~James Cromwell

August 2019

Aysha Akhtar on

Our Symphony With Animals

by Julie Peterson

s a neurologist, Dr. Aysha Akhtar wanted to acknowledge that medicine has largely overlooked our relationships with animals and their impact on our health. As a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and bullying, she gained strength and courage to change her situation after forming a deep bond with an abused dog. She found there were more stories like hers that explain how the health and happiness of humans and animals are interlaced. After traveling to interview people whose lives have been profoundly influenced by animals, Akhtar used her experiences and those of others to demonstrate the science behind the intricate and mutually beneficial associations between humans and animals. The result is her book, Our Symphony with Animals: On Health, Empathy, and Our Shared Destinies. After time spent with homeless people, a former mobster, a Marine veteran, a serial killer, animal sanctuary workers and farmers, she relates what happens when people forge (or break) bonds with animals, and how the love we give them comes full circle back to us.

How do you explain that an untrained animal, like Sylvester, the abused dog you bonded with, can help a person heal and recover? It’s the fact that the animal is not a human being. Animals help diffuse the humangenerated pressure in our lives. If you treat an animal with kindness, that is the only thing that the animal will judge you by. Animals don’t care about your past, your money, your mistakes in life—they have no preconceived notions about you. Animals 48

have a purity that helps us be our true selves without worrying about being judged.

What is the most memorable moment of your journey to discover more stories like your own?

It was a beautiful, warm, summer evening, and I was just sitting at an animal sanctuary with a pig named Ivy. She was such a sweet girl and such an emotional being, she reminded me of Sylvester. While Ivy was sleeping, I was listening to the sounds around me— ducks, chickens, cows, horses, dogs and nature. The sun was setting. I became immersed in the moment and felt a profound sense of connectedness. All the sounds came together for me like a Mozart symphony. I had never felt that kind of peace. It was beautiful.

What is the science behind the neurological and biological phenomena you describe in this interaction between humans and animals?

First, studies are emerging that suggest that the way we feel empathy toward each other is not very different from the way we feel empathy

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

toward other animals. It appears that we may feel stronger empathy toward other animals because, like children, we see them as vulnerable. Second, medical studies show that just being with animals provides measurable physiological changes within us, showing a boost to our well-being. For example, just being with a dog for five to 10 minutes can decrease blood pressure and stress hormones, and provide a long-term boost to cardiovascular health. It also leads to increases in positive neurochemicals like dopamine and oxytocin—the chemicals that make us feel happy. What’s even more interesting, studies suggest that the same positive effects are also happening in the animal.

How did you come to believe that compassion for animals is the next step in the moral evolution of humans?

Animals are more on the radar of the current younger generation than they used to be. This means that empathy for animals is growing with each generation. Part of the reason is that there is a moral consciousness growing within our species. We are waking up to the fact that how we treat each other needs to be more ethical, and that includes animals. We’re witnessing that the destruction of other species is causing the unraveling of ecosystems, and that is causing increases in things like mosquito-borne diseases. In other words, our disruption of other species is coming back to hurt us. Slowly, our collective consciousness is waking up to recognize that how we treat nonhumans affects us, as well.

If readers could learn just one thing from Symphony, what would you like it to be?

Go forward in life feeling a sense of empowerment and hope, recognizing that our well-being is very much tied in with the well-being of other animals. Julie Peterson lives in rural Wisconsin with her husband, dogs and chickens, and has contributed to Natural Awakenings for more than a decade. Contact her at JPtrsn22@att.net.

pet resource guide

VETERINARY SERVICES

ADOPTION/RESCUE ANIMALS IN DISTRESS INC

NFSAW

238 Danbury Rd, Wilton 203-762-2006 • Animals-In-Distress.com

223 State Rt 37, New Fairfield 203-746-2925 • NFSAW.org

BRIDGEPORT ANIMAL CONTROL

PET ANIMAL WELFARE SOCIETY INC (PAWS)

236 Evergreen St, Bridgeport 203-576-7727

COMMUNITY CATS

504 Main Ave, Norwalk 203-750-9572 • PAWSCT.org

PO Box 4380, Stamford CommunityCatsCT@yahoo.com CommunityCatsCT.org

PET PROTECTORS

DANBURY ANIMAL WELFARE

RIDGEFIELD OPERATION FOR ANIMAL RESCUE (ROAR)

SOCIETY (DAWS) 147 Grassy Plain St, Bethel 203-744-3297

2490 Black Rock Tpke, #453, Fairfield 203-330-0255 • PetProtectorsRescue.org

NUTMEG SPAY/NEUTER CLINIC 25 Charles St, Stratford 203-690-1550 • NutmegClinic.org

The Nutmeg Spay/Neuter Clinic is a low-cost, high-volume facility for cats and dogs, the first such professional clinic in Fairfield County. The clinic offers other low-cost services during the spay/ neuter appointment. Nutmeg honors state spay/ neuter vouchers at face value from adopted shelter pets and qualified low-income families, and offers further low-cost incentives to nonprofit rescue groups. Pit bulls and mixes are welcome at an even more reduced rate, and the clinic offers spay/neuter and vaccine discounts for feral cats. See ad, page 49.

PET ASSISTANCE, INC

45 South St, Ridgefield 203-438-0158 • ROAR-Ridgefield.org

PO Box 2015, New Preston 860-355-PETS • GetaPet@gmail.com PetAssistanceInc.org

FRIENDS OF FELINES INC

STRAYS AND OTHERS

PO Box 8147, Stamford 203-363-0220 Cats@AdoptAPet.org • AdoptAPet.org

PO Box 473, New Canaan 203-966-6556 StraysAndOthers@hotmail.com

LOOKING GLASS ANIMAL RESCUE

WESTPORT ANIMAL SHELTER ADVOCATES (WASA)

Pet Assistance helps keep pets in their homes in times of financial and medical crises, providing emergency veterinary subsidies to pet owners in financial need. We only give grants for pets that have a good prognosis, unless the knowledge we gain from the treatment or surgery may help future animals in need.

Ridgefield • LGARinc.org On Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

1 Tower Ridge, Westport 203-557-0361 • WestportWASA.org

August 2019

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calendar of events All Calendar events must be received by the 10th of the month prior to publication and adhere to our guidelines. Calendar submissions must be entered online at eNaturalAwakenings.com: click on “submit calendar” at the very top of the page.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 2 Reiki 1st Degree Workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Sound Bath Meditation – 7:30-9pm. Enjoy a relaxing evening where you can relax, rejuvenate and realign with sound bath meditation. Bring a blanket,

markyourcalendar ALBERTSON MEMORIAL CHURCH UPCOMING EVENTS Saturday, August 3 & September 7 Spiritual/Psychic Fair • 11am-4pm • $35+ Sunday, August 4 Understanding Your Chakras with Elena Cantavero • 1-3pm • Cost-By Donation Tuesday, August 6 Aluin-A New Form of Elemental Energy Control with Ben Davis • 1-3pm • $20 Thursday, August 8 White Light Healing Night Service 7-8pm • Love Donation Sunday, August 18 Women and Spiritualism with Rev. Jackie Randall 1-3pm • $20/Members; $30 Non-Members ONGOING EVENTS: Sundays Service • 11am-12:30pm Prayer Circle Second and Fourth Sundays • 10-10:45am Bereavement Group for Parents • 1-2pm Wednesdays Spirit Speaks – Developing Psychic & Mediumship Abilities with Rev. Ana Reluzco 7-9pm • $20 Thursdays Spiritual Mediumship Class – All Levels First & Third Thursdays • 7-9pm Love Donation or Service Cancelled events will be posted on our website Email: Info@AlbertsonChurch.org Website: AlbertsonChurch.org Facebook: Facebook.com/ AlbertsonMemorialChurchofSpiritualism Meetup: Meetup.com/ AlbertsonMemorialChurchofSpiritualism

Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany. 203-903-2646. Welcome@RockyCorner.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 16

mat, pillow or props to find the most relaxing position. Several different instruments, including tuning forks, crystal singing bowls, Tibetan singing bowls, tings has, gongs, shruti box, ocean drum, rain stick and a host of others will be used. $30 by 7/25; $45 after. Yoga Culture, 105 Mill Plain Rd, Danbury.

Third Eye Workshop, Ajna with Berta – 7–9pm. Open the third eye and enter into a magnificence that can only be imagined by opening up the third eye and allowing the universe to speak to us and show us the way. Healing is possible. Join us at Jiiva to explore deeply into your Third Eye. $30/ by 8/4; $40/thereafter. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Startford. 203-345-7747. Support@ JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 3

SATURDAY, AUGUST 17

Reiki Level 1 Workshop – 10am-5pm. With Gigi Benanti. Learn Western style from an experienced Reiki Master (21 years). Includes latest info. Learn how to use Reiki for self-healing and healing for others. Two manuals and certificate. $125. Angelic Healing Center for Reiki, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com. Yoga On The Ball and Wall – 1:30-3:30pm. With Karen Pierce and teacher trainees in the Yoga studies workshop. Qualifies for Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Credit. Highly effective self-care tools for pain relief and improved performance using a fitness ball, tennis balls and the wall to unravel patterns of pain and dysfunction. Please bring your own stability ball. $39. Yogaspace, 78 Stony Hill Rd, Bethel. 203-730-9642. Info@ YogaSpace-CT.com. YogaSpace-CT.com.

Info Session and Tour: Green Homes for Sale at Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany – 10am–1pm. Friendly neighborhood with an organic farm just 5 miles north of New Haven. A great place to raise kids, to be creative, to grow, to retire. Find out more. Please RSVP. Free. Rocky Corner Cohousing, 58 Old Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-903-2646. Welcome@RockyCorner.org.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 22 Annual Fun Girls Night Out – 5–9pm. Event to benefit Dress for Success Mid-Fairfield County. Ladies who attend this event will enjoy a mixing, mingling, eating, drinking, shopping night out with their girlfriends. Tickets include: buffet dinner, drink samples, live music, dancing, mini-beauty make-overs, photo booth, live demos, prizes and of course our Pink Swag Bags, plus much more.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 6 Stand Up Paddle Board Yoga – 6–7:30pm. Take your yoga on the lake. Stand up paddle board yoga is a fun and challenging way to build your yoga practice while enjoying the outdoors. Paddle boards are provided (if you have your own board and wish to sign up contact the studio and pay for class only). $50. Chatterton Marina On Candlewood Lake, 5 Shore Dr, New Fairfield. WeAreYogaCulture.com.

MONDAY, AUGUST 12 Holistic Moms Network Summer Potluck – 6:30– 7:30pm. Bring the family and chat about all things holistic. We look forward to meeting you and creating new friendships and relationships. Families will purchase their own meals, we will provide the dessert. Please RSVP. Everyone is welcome to attend our monthly meetings. Chick-fil-A, 156 Federal Rd, Brookfield. HMNOGD@gmail.com. HolisticMoms.org. The Graduate Institute Information Session – 6:30– 7:30pm. Join us for an information session about New England’s Award-Winning School for Holistic Studies. Offering Transformative Education. Affordable. One Weekend Per Month. Master of Arts Degrees, Certificates and Sixth-Year Equivalent Programs. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Learn.edu.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14 Info Session: Green Homes for Sale at Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany – 7–9pm. Friendly neighborhood with an organic farm just 5 miles north of New Haven with a remote info session. A great place to raise kids, to be creative, to grow, to retire. Zoom link provided after you RSVP. Free.

markyourcalendar SPIRIT FESTIVAL September 13-15 Experience a celebration of wellness, yoga, music and dance – in affiliation with Riverfront Recapture and BaliSpirit Festival. Riverside Park & Mortensen Riverfront Plaza, Hartford SpiritYogaFestival.com

markyourcalendar HEALTH WELLNESS AND LIFESTYLE EXPO 2019 Saturday, September 14 and Sunday, September 15 • 11am-5pm Boardwalk area at Harbor Point, Stamford HWL-EXPOS.com facebook.com/hwl.expos twitter: @hwl_expos

August 2019

markyourcalendar calendar of events AYURVEDIC HEALTH COUNSELING: Q&A SESSION August 24 • 3-5pm For an: Ayurvedic Health Counseling Course Certified by NAMA (National Ayurvedic Medical Association) The Institute for the Advancement of Ayurvedic Sciences Starting October 2019 Application Deadline August 30 Dr. Kaushik’s Ayurvedic & Naturopathic Clinic 792 Route 35, Cross River, NY Q&A RSVP: 914-875-9088

markyourcalendar A YEAR OF HEALING IN 2020 With Dr. Eilis Philpott Soul Healing Journey, LLC We will meet one weekend a month for 12 months. We will meet once a month and spend Friday evening together and all day Saturday and Sunday. The 2020 dates are: January 10-12 • February 7-9 • March 13-15 April 3-5 • May 1-3 • June 12-14 • July 10-12 August 7-9 • September 11-13 • October 9-11 November 13-15 • December 11-13 I will share with you what I have learned from trainings, from life and from guidance in a way that integrates the various modalities. By the end of this 12 months of training you will have catapulted your personal, professional and spiritual journey into the stratosphere. Location: TBD Investment: Early bird rate - Pay in full $4,200 or pay quarterly $1,050 or pay monthly $350 Regular rate - Pay in full $4,800 or pay quarterly $1,200 or pay monthly $400 Reviewer rate - Pay in full $3,000 or pay quarterly $750 or pay monthly $250 To Register: Choose an option to pay (full, quarterly or monthly) and make that first payment. Be prepared to commit to one full year of healing. NOTE: If you take advantage of the early bird rate and make the initial payment you will be locked into that rate for the year. Registration required. 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com AcademyforSoulHealing.com 52

General admission and VIP tickets are available until 8/16. $39. Woodwinds, 29 School Ground Rd, Branford. 203-745-4946. Charlene@CVPEvents. com. Tickets: FunGirlsNightOut.com.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27 The Graduate Institute Information Session – 6:30– 7:30pm. Join us for an information session about New England’s Award-Winning School for Holistic Studies. Offering Transformative Education. Affordable. One Weekend Per Month. Master of Arts Degrees, Certificates and Sixth-Year Equivalent Programs. Free. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. Learn.edu.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 28 Info Session: Green Homes for Sale at Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany – 7–9pm. Friendly neighborhood with an organic farm just 5 miles north of New Haven with a remote info session. A great place to raise kids, to be creative, to grow, to retire. Zoom link provided after you RSVP. Free. Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany. 203-903-2646. Welcome@RockyCorner.org.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 30 Reiki Second Degree – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/Usui Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 31 Info Session and Tour: Green Homes for Sale at Rocky Corner Cohousing, Bethany – 10am–1pm. Friendly neighborhood with an organic farm just 5 miles north of New Haven. A great place to raise kids, to be creative, to grow, to retire. Find out more. Please RSVP. Free. Rocky Corner Cohousing, 58 Old Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-903-2646. Welcome@RockyCorner.org. Reiki Second Degree Workshop – 10am-5:30pm. With Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher (21 years). Learn to send distance Reiki healing, deepen use of Reiki for others and yourself. Two powerful energy connections from Gigi’s short Japanese/Usui Lineage. Two manuals and certificate. $215. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@ snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 Rosie the Riveter – 2–3:30pm. Dr. Darla Shaw will take on the role of Rita Stapleton Reuter, a Rosie from Bridgeport who was a riveter on F4U Corsair Bombers at the Chance Voght Plant in Stratford. She’ll share her research, and explain how audience members can become Rosebuds. Enjoy this gal power presentation with a cup of Victory Garden Chowder. $25 (a donation will be made to Rosie the Riveter National Park). Address provided at time of registration. 860-354-4881. GroundedGoodwife@ yahoo.com. GroundedGoodwife.com.

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ongoing events

sunday Tal Fusion: Sunday Sweat – 9:15-10am. With Tal Fagin. Get your heart pumping and blood flowing with this eclectic, spirited, high energy class. Class is 50 minutes in length, so get ready to get in high gear. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-5210359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Satsang Meditation – 9:30-11am. Satsangs are wonderful spiritual and community gatherings of like-minded people. Satsangs with Shanti Mission Healers are filled with music, mantra, meditation, spiritual instruction/discourse and spiritual blessings to help you reset, recharge and get ready for the week ahead. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@ gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. New Beginnings in Community Sunday Service – 10am. Join this group of spiritually minded people embracing and honoring all world religions, belief systems, cultures and traditions. Free. Mystics By The Sea, 394 New Haven Ave, Milford. 203-980-6272. NewBeginningsInCommunity.Weebly.com. Family Meditation Program – 10-11:30am. Second and fourth Sunday. Ages 4-13. While the adults are meditating in the main building, young people can connect with others in their age-group, learn about mindfulness, compassion toward self and others. 203-244-3130. MMKeeler@gmail.com. ReddingMeditation.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Celebration Service – 10:30am-12pm. With Rev. Shawn Moninger. Inspiring message supports your spiritual unfolding with thought provoking, soul -healing topics and uplifting music. By donation. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org. Sunday Morning Meditation – 11-11:45am. Experience stillness and peace, establish a regular practice, reduce stress and tension, and enhance health and well-being. Meditation class for beginners and experienced meditators. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga. Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Sunday Albertson Memorial Church Service – 11am-12:30pm. Join us for inspirational sermons, meditation, energy healing and messages from Spirit. By donation. Albertson Memorial Church of Spiritualism, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Monthly Mystical Market – 11am-4pm. Third Sunday. Psychics, mediums, intuitives, CT artisans, vendors and holistic practitioners. Free admission, vendors prices vary. The Ruby Tree, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@ TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com. Meditation Class with Stephanie – 12-1pm. Experience the power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Classes include instruction and meditation practice. Join us for our other meditation classes, Tuesdays at 7:15pm and Saturdays at 9am. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Lorrie D. Therapeutic Massage, Pain Relief and Relaxation – 12-5pm. With Lorrie D. She specializes in therapeutic massage, pain relief and relaxation. Advanced appointments are recommended, walk-ins are always welcome. $75. Black Cat Mystical Shoppe, 143 Bennett St, Bridgeport. 203-941-9408. BlackCat@aol.com. Karma Community Yoga – 5:30-6:30pm. Fourth Sunday. Our monthly donation-based class. Bring a non-perishable food donation, and enjoy an hour for your mind, body and spirit. The Ruby Tree, Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury. 203-586-1655. Christina@TheRubyTreeCT.com. TheRubyTreeCT.com.

monday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Yoga All Levels – 10-11am. With Caroline. Class given according to whatever level of student happens to show up. All levels welcome. The class is hatha flow-based with elements of relaxation, meditation, breath work and strength. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org.

Reiki Share – 7:30-9:30pm. Fourth Monday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com.

tuesday Slow Yoga – 10-11am. With Lella Ilyinsky.Class is set to a slower pace, and may include elements of restorative yoga, yin yoga and foundational flow sequences. Beginners welcome. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 12:30-2pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness.A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Monthly Information Sessions at The Graduate Institute – 6:30-7:30pm. Join us for an info session every 2nd Tuesday of the month at The Graduate Institute. Please contact us to let us know that you’ll be attending. The Graduate Institute, 171 Amity Rd, Bethany. 203-874-4252. New NAMI Support Group – 6:30-7:45pm. Third Tuesday. NAMI Support Groups offer a place where families and friends of individuals living with mental health challenges can come together in a safe and compassionate forum. Meetings are confidential. Free. Rowayton United Methodist Church, 5 Pennoyer St, Norwalk. 203428-6864. ClaudiaDevita1123@gmail.com. NAMISouthwestCT.org. Reiki Share – 7-8:30pm. First Tuesday of the month. With June and Tracy. Come join our circle of practitioners for sharing and caring and healing. All levels of practitioners are welcome. Please RSVP. $20/drop-in. Kindred Spirits, 197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Intermediate Evidential Mediumship – 7-9pm. This class is designed for those who know how to connect to spirit and wish to deepen the connection and get more specific evidence. Once a month we work with the public to gain experience. $20. 135 Clover Hill Dr. 203-344-9311. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. Second Tuesday. Practice and enhance your Reiki healing and grow your intuition. All will receive healing time and practice time. You must have completed at minimum Reiki Level I in order to fully participate. $15/suggested contribution. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail. com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Meditation Class with Berta – 7:15-8:30pm. Experience the incredible power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Each session includes instruction and meditation practice. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-3457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com.

Reiki Healing Shares – 7:30-9:30pm. First and third Tuesdays. With Gigi Benanti, Usui Reiki Master/ Teacher. For Reiki practitioners only. Includes short instruction and discussion. Must RSVP. $20. Angelic Healing Center, 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com.

wednesday Mat Pilates – 9-10am. With Suzette Caldwell. Classic mat Pilates work out, vigorous class but open to all levels. You set the challenge bar for your workout. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Power Yoga/Vinyasa – 11am-12pm. Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitnessbased approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Power yoga incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas. $20. Soul Synergy Wellness, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Power Yoga/Vinyasa – 5:30-6:30pm. Power yoga is a general term used to describe a vigorous, fitnessbased approach to vinyasa-style yoga. Power yoga incorporates the athleticism of Ashtanga, including lots of vinyasas. $20. Soul Synergy Wellness, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Tai Chi Classes – 6:30-7:30pm. With June Fagan, Tai Chi Instructor. A slow movement meditation for all levels of fitness. Known to reduce stress, increase focus and balance and improve self and well-being. $25/drop-in; $85/1 class per week; $150/unlimited classes month. Kindred Spirits, 1197 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield. 203-938-3690. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Meditation – 7-8:30pm. Meditation that often includes chanting, music and requires your active participation. All faiths and cultures are welcomed. By donation. Muktinath Holistic Center, 731 Main St, Monroe. 203-518-5808. MuktinathHC@gmail.com. MuktinathHolisticCenter.com. Beginners Psychic Mediumship Development – 7-9pm. Learn to meditate and connect to your own soul as well as the souls around you - both incarnate and discarnate. Topics include healing,carting,

August 2019

ongoing events psychic readings and evidential mediumship.$20. Union Lodge No. 5, A.F. & A.M., 47 Kirkham Pl, Stamford. 203-344-9311. Heart Speak – 7-9pm. First Wednesday. Your Inner Voice: A GEM is a two-minute audio which inspires and uplifts—a part of you that speaks inspiration, wisdom and happiness. Find your inner voice, crystallize it into a very short audio and then share it on the internet. Free. Contact@HeartSpeak.life. HeartSpeak.life. Reiki Share – 7-9pm. With Nancy. Reiki Share is a wonderful opportunity to give and receive Reiki in a casual atmosphere of friendship, honor, positive energy and devotion. We welcome Reiki practitioners of any level. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Holistic Moms Network Fairfield County, CT Chapter – 7:30pm. Second Wednesday. Associates in Family Chiropractic and Natural Health Care, 156 East Ave, Norwalk. Home.Homewebs.com/ HMNFairfieldCtyCT. Turning Point S.H.A.R.E. Divorce Group – 7:30-9:30pm. Third Wednesdays. Offering support, healing, advocacy, resources and education for women in the process of, or recently divorced. $20, $150/10-session card. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center, 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointShare.com.

thursday Kundalini Yoga and Music Meditation – 9:3010:30am. With Leesa Sklover, PhD, C-IAYT, Certified Yoga Therapist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher. Experience the yoga of awareness weekly to heal your mind and your life. All welcome. Register for first class. $15 per class/monthly discount. Short Beach Union Church, 14 Pentacost St, Branford. 917-860-0488. DrSklover@gmail.com. LoveLifeProductions.net. Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 9:30-11am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. By donation. Redding Center for Meditation, 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 6:45-8pm. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/ level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and

props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC.Yoga.Wendy@ gmail.com. HCCYoga.org. Reiki Healing Circle – 7-9pm. First Thursday. All welcome. Share and experience Reiki. Please join us while we enjoy a peaceful, powerful night of healing. Hosted by Gigi Benanti, Reiki Master/Teacher. $20. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, Norwalk. 203-852-1150. AngelHealReikiGigiB@snet.net. AngelHealReiki.com, UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

friday Vinyasa Yoga – 9:30-10:30am. Vinyasa Yoga is a flowing, dynamic sequence of poses that is one of the most popular styles of yoga in the United States. This type of practice involves synchronizing the breath with a continuous flow of postures. $20. Soul Synergy Holistic Wellness Center and Spa, 1492 High Ridge Rd, Ste 6, 2nd Fl, Stamford. 203-814-1355. SoulSynergyWellness111@gmail.com. SoulSynergy.org. Reiki Share – 9:30-11:30am. First Friday. With JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS, RMT. Practice Reiki in a small group setting. Share experiences and help each other develop in a safe, fun environment while providing a wonderful, relaxing, rejuvenating experience. $20. Registration required. Turning Point Healing Arts and Education Center 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield. 203-438-3050. TurningPointReiki.com. Discussion with The Higher Realms – 7-9:30pm. Last Friday. Bring your heartfelt questions and receive the wisdom of The Ascended Masters and The Divine Feminine specifically for you as channeled by Ginny Brown. $45. Address provided upon registration. HeartAndHealing@hotmail.com. GinnyBrown.net.

saturday Find Your Edge Yoga – 9-10am. With Pauline Koinis. For yoga practitioners. A chance for yoginis and yogis alike to get a Saturday morning groove on; where laughter, challenge and heart all meet on the mat. $18/class; $16/senior. Valley Spirit Cooperative and Wellness Center, 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot. 860-619-2788. Info@ ValleySpiritCoop.com. ValleySpiritCoop.com. Meditation Class with Elizabeth – 9-10:15am. Experience the power of meditation. Heal mind, body and soul. Classes include instruction and meditation practice. Join us for our other meditation classes, Tuesdays at 7:15pm and Mondays at 12pm. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-345-7747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Gentle Yoga, Pranayama, Meditation – 9:30-10:45am. Relax, release and flow into wellness in beginner/level 1 yoga classes with work on mindfulness practices, breathing techniques, alignment, flexibility and strength. Modifications suggested and props used when needed. $5/donation per class. Hindu Cultural Center of CT (HCC), 96 Chapel St, Stratford. 203-521-0359. HCC. Yoga.Wendy@gmail.com. HCCYoga.org.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

Mahasati or Insight Meditation – 10-11:30am. Learn how to live your life more skillfully through the development of self-awareness and mindfulness. A simple practice that can be easily incorporated into daily life. Discover the benefits of becoming more present. 203-244-3130. Info@ReddingMeditation.org. ReddingMeditation.org. Reiki Share – 10:30am-12:30pm. With Elizabeth. Reiki Share is a wonderful opportunity to give and receive Reiki in a casual atmosphere of friendship, honor, positive energy and devotion. We welcome Reiki practitioners of any level. $10. The Jiiva Center, 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford. 203-3457747. Support@JiivaCenter.com. JiivaCenter.com. Spondylitis Support Group – 11am-12:30pm. Last Saturday. Led by Dr. Andrew Cummins, naturopathic physician. Having lived with the chronic inflammatory disease Ankylosing Spondylitis for the last 18 years, Cummins understands what living with chronic pain and limited mobility is all about. Group provides education, empowerment, understanding and support. Free. Shalva Clinic, 8 Lincoln St, 1st Fl, Westport. 203-916-4600. DrCummins@ShalvaClinic.org. ShalvaClinic.org. Spiritual, Psychic and Healing Fair – 11am-4pm. First Saturday. Would you like a second opinion on your life issues, or a personal message from a departed loved one? Are you curious about your purpose in this life, or seeking a bit more direction and focus? Come join us. $35+. Albertson Memorial Church, 293 Sound Beach Ave, Old Greenwich. 203-637-4615. Info@AlbertsonChurch.org. AlbertsonChurch.org. Open Mic Night – 7-9pm, 3rd Saturday. Bring music printed out in your key and Kenneth Gartman will accompany you at the piano for your moment at the microphone. Comedians, poets, writers and musicians welcomed as well. Unity Center of Norwalk, 3 Main St, 2nd Fl, Norwalk. 203-855-7922. Office@ UnityCenterNorwalk.org. UnityCenterNorwalk.org.

classifieds To place a Classified Listing: $1 per word. $25 minimum. Magazine deadline: 12th of month prior to publication. Email copy to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com.

HELP WANTED DISTRIBUTORS WANTED for monthly deliveries of Natural Awakenings and other local publications. Perfect for a retired person or stay-at-home mom looking to earn some extra income and connect with their local community. Honesty and dependability are the most important characteristics of our distributors - if you don’t have it in spades, please do not apply! Thomas@ManInMotionLLC.com. DO YOU LOVE NATURAL AWAKENINGS? Help us spread the word! We’re looking for Community Street Team Members to work with us at upcoming events all over CT. Please send an email (subject line: COMMUNITY) and resume to NicoleM@NaturalAwakeningsmag.com.

community resource guide Connecting you to the leaders in natural healthcare and green living in our community. To find out how you can be included in the Community Resource Guide email FFCAdvertising@NaturalAwakeningsMag.com to request our media kit.

13TH OCTAVE/LAHOCHI EVERYDAY ALCHEMY LLC

Nicole Miale, MA, Certified Habit Change Coach New Milford 860-799-5076 • NMiale@charter.net Alchemy is the transformation of base metal into gold. A process that defies logic, it seems magical. This kind of wonder is accessible to each of us in our daily lives! Using a variety of non-invasive approaches and techniques customized to each client, I facilitate the alchemical process within each person. Rediscover the magic in yourself and experience your golden life!

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She is one of only two people approved to teach 13th Octave/LaHoChi in the United States. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 35.

ACUPUNCTURE JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC

Board Certified Acupuncturist Valley Spirit Wellness Center 6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot 860-619-2788 •ValleySpiritCoop.com Compassionate professional care for those suffering from pain, internal disorders, menstrual issues and menopause, infertility, depression and anxiety, insomnia, addiction, fatigue, tune-ups and more.

AYURVEDA NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

A combination of Ayurveda and Naturopathy is used to create a unique treatment plan to regain and maintain health. Based on one’s particular body constitution (dosha), a plan may include supplements, diet/nutrition suggestions, lifestyle management, detoxification, hydrotherapy, 0zone therapy, Panchakarma. See ad, page 33.

SEPTEMBER

Sound, Music, Yoga & Dance Therapies plus: Vibrant at Any Age HEALING MUSIC & MOVEMENT ISSUE

BIOFEEDBACK ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Advanced Bio-Regulation (BRT) is a unique approach to health and wellness that uses Biofeedback and PEMF-based Electromagnetic Technology to help the body better self-regulate, adapt and heal naturally. It is used for chronic pain, depression, anxiety, hormonal issues, Lyme, etc. See ad, page 8.

OCTOBER

Chiropractic & Orthopedic Care

plus: Healing With Frequencies ALIGNMENT & LONGEVITY ISSUE

BIRTH DOULA MOMMA T DOULA

Terri Piazza 919-244-8410 MommaTDoula@gmail.com MommaTDoula.com Every woman deserves the childbirth experience they desire, from informative practical classes to prenatal, birth, postpartum and nursing support. Momma T Doula provides care from birth planning and education through labor, postpartum and parenting. I am enthusiastic about helping families have positive experiences so the world is a healthier, happier place. See ad, page 13.

NOVEMBER

Hormonal Health plus: Natural Sleep Solutions & Healthy Home

CONNECT WITH OUR READERS THREE-MONTH EDITORIAL CALENDAR & MARKETING PLANNER

203-885-4674 eNaturalAwakenings.com August 2019

BREAST THERMOGRAPHY ALBA THERMAL IMAGING LLC

Safe, painless early detection 71 East Ave, Ste D, Norwalk 203-856-1421 • AlbaThermalImaging.com Thermography can detect breast disease at its earliest stages and monitor and assess pain in any part of the body. Safe, painless, noninvasive, FDA registered.

CHIROPRACTIC PETER BRAGLIA, DC

True Health Family Chiropractic 7365 Main St, Stratford 203-923-8633 TrueHealthCT.com As a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, Dr. Braglia has received advanced training in Pediatric Adjusting and Prenatal Care, including the Webster Technique. We are proud to serve patients from all over Fairfield and New Haven Counties with our unique and gentle approach to health care. See ad, page 34.

COLONICS COLONICS

914-921-LIFE (5433) LifelineHygienics.com Experience and personalized service you can trust. The finest in colonic irrigation and personal care. Serving the tri-state area since 1993.

CRANIOSACRAL THERAPY/ ALEXANDER TECHNIQUE VINCENT FRASER, CST, CAT, SEP Craniosacral Therapy, Alexander Technique, Somatic Experiencing Greenwich and Norwalk 203-570-2059 Vincent@VincentFraser.com

Vincent offers paths to wholeness which lead to resolving pain and trauma, ease of movement in one’s body and life, and a fuller conscious embodiment.

EDUCATION THE GRADUATE INSTITUTE 171 Amity Rd, Bethany 203-874-4252 Info@Learn.edu • Learn.edu

The Graduate Institute is a state-accredited graduate school dedicated to promoting an integrative and holistic worldview through the study of health, wellness, education, and personal and professional transformation. Enrolling now for 2019 programs. See ad, page 23.

INSTITUTE FOR HOLISTIC HEALTH STUDIES

Western Connecticut State University Christel Autuori, RDH, RYT, MA, Director 181 White St, Danbury 203-837-8559 WCSU.edu/IHHS The mission of the IHHS is to provide the University and Greater Danbury area with an opportunity to engage in and explore different aspects of holistic and integrative health through programming and instruction. Programs include Wellness Wednesday lunchtime workshops, monthly meditation program, lecture series, health wellness and fitness fair.

THE INSTITUTE OF SUSTAINABLE NUTRITION 113 Simsbury Rd, West Granby 860-764-9070 Joan@TIOSN.com • TIOSN.com

We offer a unique certification program blending the science of nutrition with the hands-on components of sustainable gardening practices. We use food and herbs to make kitchen medicine, teach basic culinary skills, and practice foraging for and using nutrient-rich wild food. Now enrolling for fall 2019. See ad, page 21.

TWO COYOTES WILDERNESS SCHOOL

P.O. Box 711, Monroe TwoCoyotes.org Facebook.com/TwoCoyotes Instagram.com/TwoCoyotes Two Coyotes Wilderness School is a non-profit nature organization dedicated to creating a healthier, more connected future by connecting people to nature, community, and their personal empowerment. We offer year-round wildernessbased mentorship programs, including summer camps, for all ages.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

eNaturalAwakenings.com

ENERGY HEALING BETH LEAS

Transformative Healing • Tarot 203-856-9566 BethLeas.com • TLCTarot.com If not now, when? Inspire change on all levels—greater physical ease, emotional freedom, peace of mind and spiritual connection. 20 years of intuitive healing experience with adults and children of all ages. Reiki, Jin Shin Jyutsu, Tarot. See ad, page 19.

JOY REIKI INSTITUTE

Sarah Chapman, Reiki Master 3 Sterling Dr, Westport 415-912-6863 • JoyReiki-Institute.com Sarah offers private Reiki sessions reflecting the lineage of Dr Usui. Each session helps increase your vitality and balance the different areas of your body to restore the quality of your health (emotional and physical), promoting transformation and growth. Sarah also offers monthly training workshops in Reiki 1 and 2 as well as Reiki distance packages. Please consult website for more info. Or text/call Sarah directly to book your first experience.

SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 35.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE TAMARA SACHS, MD

Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC 15 Bennitt St, New Milford 860-354-3304 • TSachsMD.com Using Functional Medicine, Dr. Sachs prevents and treats chronic illnesses by addressing their underlying root causes, remaining respectful of the uniqueness, complexity and intuitions that make us human. Trained at Mt. Sinai Medical School and Yale University Hospital in Internal Medicine, in 2003 she opened Functional Medicine and Integrative Care LLC. She has great success with IBS, fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, autoimmune problems, toxicity and more, by creating individualized, realistic and comprehensive Personalized Wellness Plans. She consults in her New Milford, CT office, and also by phone or video using telemedicine.

FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE/ NUTRITION MARY GILBERTSON WELLNESS Mary Gilbertson, MS, BSN, CHHC Licensed RN, Nutritionist and Certified Health Coach 500 Purdy Hill Rd, Ste 2, Monroe 203-521-4733 MaryGilbertsonWellness@gmail.com MaryGilbertsonWellness.co

Using the concept of “Food as Medicine” to create your customized nutrition and lifestyle plan for whole living. Working one-on-one, in groups and in corporations to develop customized healthy lifestyle plans. Works with patients on metabolism and weight loss, detoxification, gut health, cancers, inflammatory conditions and stress management.

GREEN HOUSES FOR SALE ROCKY CORNER COHOUSING 203-903-2646 Homes@RockyCorner.org RockyCorner.org

Rocky Corner’s sharing and caring neighborhood: Meet friendly, creative people. Feel welcomed and included. Eat from our organic farm and gardens. Own a green home. Co-own amazing common buildings and 33 acres. Bethany, 5 miles north of New Haven. Nurture kids, retire, have fun, work together. Last remaining homes for sale. Contact us now!

HEALING ACID REFLUX HEALING ACID REFLUX NATURALLY Susan Berman, Med, CHHC 860-670-4152 Susan@HealingAcidReflux.com HealingAcidReflux.com

I work with health conscious individuals to help heal their acid reflux or GERD to avoid further damage and prevent esophageal cancer. Find your unique food and lifestyle triggers. Offers 1:1 coaching via Zoom, Skype, or a DIY program.

HEALING CENTER THE RUBY TREE

Metaphysical Shop and Healing Space Sherman Village, 670 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1655 • TheRubyTreeCT.com Rocks and crystals, magical objects, singing bowls, herbal candles and more. Local artisans, an array of holistic practitioners, a monthly Mystical Market fair, regularly scheduled psychics/ mediums/intuitives, yoga, meditation, and workshops galore—all to enhance the health of your mind, body and spirit. See ad, page 23.

HEALTHY EATING CHEF ELIANA GRUBEL, CHC

Licensed and Insured In-home Cooking Services 203-559-8946 • CleanFood4UrType.com As a Board-Certified Health Coach by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners and member of the United States Personal Chef Association, Eliana’s passion is her clients’ success. She has been serving CT for more than 15 years and now offers short-term detoxes, meals to freeze, dinner parties, homegrown microgreens and fermented, locally grown vegetables as well as personalized coaching programs. See ad, page 13.

HOLISTIC DENTIST DAVID L LERNER, DDS, CAC, FIND Yorktown Heights, NY 914-214-9678 HolisticDentist.com

We offer a unique approach to the health care of the mouth based on a holistic understanding of the whole body. I invite you to explore our website to learn how we can serve your needs. See ad, page 36.

WHOLE BODY DENTISTRY

Mark A Breiner, DDS 501 Kings Hwy East, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-0300 WholeBodyDentistry.com Mark Breiner, DDS, is a pioneer and recognized authority in the field of holistic dentistry. His patients have found solutions to baffling, unresolved and seemingly unrelated dentalrelated health problems. He is the author of the award-winning book, Whole-Body Dentistry. See ad, page 2.

HOLISTIC PSYCHIATRY DAVID LONDON, MD

544 Riverside Ave, Westport 203-557-6574 Contact@DavidLondonMD.com DavidLondonMD.com David London, MD, honors emotional, spiritual and biochemical individuality to assist healing psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders. Sophisticated genetic and lab testing help identify underlying causes. Treatment may include acupuncture, psychotherapy, EMDR, herbs, vitamins, nutrients, lifestyle changes, medication.

HYPNOSIS HEALING TREE WISDOM

Thea Litsios, CHy Locations in Norwalk and Stratford 203-693-1493 • HealingTreeWisdom.com Use the power of your whole mind to transform your life: Hypnosis for weight loss, smoking cessation, stress relief, and past life review. Certified teacher of Active Dream work. Individual dream consultations available, as well as workshops and monthly Dream Groups.

MIND-BODY TRANSFORMATION Diane Bahr-Groth, CHy, TFTdx 1177 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-595-0110 MindBodyTransformation.com

Fast, effective methods for weight, stress, fear, pain, smoking, etc. Certified Hypnotherapist, Thought Field Therapy, Time Line Therapy, NLP and Complementary Medical Hypnosis, since 1989. See ads, pages 14 and 39.

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE PHYSICIAN HENRY C. SOBO, MD

Optimal Health Medical LLC 111 High Ridge Rd, Stamford 203-348-8805 • DrSobo.com Advances in Regenerative Medicine allow Dr. Sobo to offer cutting-edge technologies such as PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) treatments and adult stem cell therapy. Dr. Sobo’s integrative approach addresses a variety of conditions such as: food allergies, Alzheimer’s/ dementia, chronic fatigue syndrome, weight loss, hormonal health, fibromyalgia, anti-aging medicine, and MTHFR-Genetic Mutation. See ad, page 12.

August 2019

INTEGRATIVE NATURAL MEDICINE SOPHIA NATURAL HEALTH CENTER Ken Hoffman, DACM, LAc, Medical Director 31 Old Rte 7, Brookfield 203-740-9300 • INM.Center

Using naturopathic and Chinese medical principles, we get to the source of your health concerns. Diagnostic methods include functional testing such as advanced bloodwork analysis, cardiovascular testing, hormone evaluation and thermography. Our customized treatment program includes acupuncture, herbal and nutritional medicine, diet and lifestyle counseling and more. Most insurance accepted.

INTEGRATIVE OPTOMETRY EYECARE ASSOCIATES, PC

Dr. Randy Schulman, MS, OD, FCOVD Locations: 6515 Main St, Trumbull • 203-374-2020 444 Westport Ave, Norwalk • 203-840-1991 2600 Post Rd, Southport • 203-255-4005 1425 Bedford St, 1M, Stamford • 203-357-0204 CTEyeCareAssociates.com We offer behavioral optometry, comprehensive vision exams, contact lenses and vision therapy. See ad, page 41.

Using state-of-the-art science combined with holistic medicine, our caring integrative physicians correct underlying imbalances and address issues which may interfere with the body’s ability to heal itself. We treat many conditions including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, immune disorders, allergies, thyroid conditions, pain, neurological conditions, stroke, concussion, ADD/ ADHD, depression, insomnia and more. We offer hyperbaric oxygen, neurofeedback and neurotherapies, osteopathic medicine, functional medicine, IV nutrient and chelation therapy, energetic medicine, homeopathy, Japanese Reiki, nutrition, colonics and detoxification, enhanced brain, athletic, scholastic performance, and more. See ad, page 2.

INSPIRATIONAL BOUTIQUE THE ANGEL COOPERATIVE

Purveyors of Positivity 51 Ethan Allen Hwy (Route 7), Ridgefield 203-431-2959 TheAngelCoop.com A unique lifestyle boutique featuring the first Shungite room in the U.S., The Angel Cooperative has products and experiences designed to care for your body and soul while also offering beautiful and healing goods for the home. We offer a regular schedule of workshops, meditations, classes, and other holistic and spiritual events. See ad, page 14.

LYME CONNECTION

400 Main St, Ridgefield Info@LymeConnection.org LymeConnection.org Lyme Connection is an all-volunteer, communitybased task force providing support and resources to patients and their families coping with tickborne disease.

MASSAGE AND BODYWORK IV THERAPY

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501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 WholeBodyMed.com IV nutrient therapy bypasses the digestive process and delivers 100% of pure quality nutrients to your cells. Custom drips support your immune system, help you recover from long work hours, hangovers, jet lag, and increase stamina, support muscle recovery and growth, aid in detoxification, provide anti-aging benefits for youthful skin and glow, promote weight loss, help brain function, provide an energy boost and more. See ad, page 2.

LIFE COACH CHRISTINE MOFFATT

Energy Space Wellness and Divorce Coaching Services Westchester and Greenwich 203-625-8461 Christine@EnergySpace.life EnergySpace.life We offer wellness and divorce coaching as well as energy work, and group sessions for clients looking for social support and connections in addition to private coaching. I am also a Reiki Master and often incorporate the practice when clients are looking for help managing stress. See ad, page 38.

Fairfield County/Housatonic Valley Edition

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com We offer Traditional, Thai Massage and Prenatal massage. At Jiiva Massage, our goal is to provide our clients with a variety of experienced therapists and modalities to choose from. Our hope is to provide you with an assortment of different techniques so you can find what works best for your individual needs. See ad, page 25.

MEDITATION CENTER FOR MINDFULNESS & INSIGHT MEDITATION 9 Picketts Ridge Rd, West Redding 203-244-3130 ReddingMeditation.org

We teach and practice Mahasati meditation. Mahasati meditation cultivates self-awareness through attention to the movement of the body and, at more advanced levels, to the movement of the mind. No prior meditating experience is necessary. Ongoing weekly meditation classes, retreats and events. Please check monthly event calendar or visit ReddingMeditation.org for updated information.

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NATURAL AND ORGANIC PRODUCTS ANATTA

447 Broadway, Ste 204 New York City, NY 10013 347-762-1268 AnattaMarket.com Anatta is a global online marketplace for natural, organic and raw products from farmers worldwide. The newly-formed company’s products include a variety of essential oils and waters, and its unique business model eliminates overhead costs by connecting customers directly with farmers. See ad, page 9.

NATUROPATHIC PHYSICIAN ADAM BREINER, ND

Whole-Body Medicine LLC 501 Kings Hwy E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • WholeBodyMed.com Dr. Adam Breiner has helped patients with a wide variety of neurological conditions—including stroke, concussions, TBIs, ADD/ADHD, depression and anxiety—as well as seeing patients for enhanced sports, scholastic and workplace performance. His center was the first facility in the country to offer the powerful combination of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and neurofeedback. Dr. Breiner also has natural and cutting-edge approaches for the treatment of Lyme disease. See ad, page 2.

NEERU KAUSHIK, ND, MS ACU, MS, MA Institute for Ayurvedic and Naturopathic Therapies 805 Kings Highway East, Fairfield 203-331-9111 DrKaushik@AyurvedicInstituteCT.com

SHALVA CLINIC LLC

Ellen M Lewis, ND, Director 8 Lincoln St, Westport 203-916-4600 • ShalvaClinic.org Dr. Lewis offers comprehensive holistic care for women including well-women exams, fertility, thyroid and menopause support. She also has a special interest in pediatrics and utilizes a variety of natural modalities when working with patients with ADD/ADHD, autism, allergies, eczema and asthma. Treatments include herbal medicine, functional medicine, biotherapeutic drainage, homeopathy and more. See ad, back cover.

NATURAL HEALTH AND WELLNESS CENTER

Lisa Singley, ND, MS 2103 Main St, Ste 2, Stratford 203-874-4333 Info@NHAWC.com • NHAWC.com We use advanced diagnostic testing with safe, effective, all-natural healing modalities and treatment options to treat acute and chronic conditions; restore balance; and treat the mind, body and spirit. Specialists in endocrine disorders, digestive issues, pain management and chronic fatigue. We offer comprehensive solutions to prevent illness and maintain optimal health for body, mind and spirit. See ad, page 17.

MARVIN P. SCHWEITZER, ND

Wellness Institute 1 Westport Ave, Norwalk 203-847-2788 • DrMarvinSchweitzer.com Family Health Care using all natural therapies for 25 years. Acupuncture, bioidentical hormones, homeopathy, CMYK 58, 79, 0, 0 Chinese/Western herbs, allergy/ toxin testing, oxygen therapy, Meridian stress assessment, nutrition/enzyme therapies. Aleo – Bold CMYK: 72, 66, 65, 79 See ad, page 15. CMYK 1, 99, 1, 0

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898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com We work with children, adolescents, teens, adults and families around a variety of issues with non-medication therapies. We provide brain-based treatments like neurofeedback, biofeedback, EFT, hypnosis, meditation, etc. Our staff provides non-judgmental support to help alleviate stress and promote wellness. See ad, page 8.

ORGANIC SALON ECO CHIC SALON SPA & BLOW DRY BAR 16 Center St, Wilton 203-966-5655 EcoChicSalonCT.com

Eco Chic Salon Spa & Blow Dry Bar is committed to the healthy way of life so many people strive for each and every day. Mindful stylists are dedicated to the use of environmentally friendly products, including Eco Chic branded products, and alternative hair services with less toxic variations from the typical salon experience. Be well. Be beautiful.

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT DR. LORI MONACO

Inspire and Empower, LLC 203-395-9832 • DrLoriMonaco@gmail.com DrLoriMonaco.com Lori is a Transformational Speaker, Coach and Wholistic practitioner helping people become the best version of themselves. She uses mindfulness techniques including the HeartMath protocol for creating heart coherence and improved resilience. She offers one-on-one and group coaching sessions, lectures and workshops, and Laughter Yoga sessions. She works with children to adults.

ADAM BREINER, ND

The NeuroEdge Brain Performance Center Full Color Division of Whole-Body MedicineOne Color 501 Kings Highway E, Ste 108, Fairfield 203-371-8258 • TheNeuroEdge.com

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The NeuroEdge is dedicated to keeping your brain sharp and high-functioning. We treat head injuries and brain traumas such as concussion and stroke as well as help athletes, students and businesspeople improve their performance. Learn and view our cutting-edge neurotherapies at TheNeuroEdge.com. See ad, page 2.

August 2019

PSYCHOTHERAPY

ROSEANN CAPANNA-HODGE, EDD, LPC, BCN, LLC

898 Ethan Allen Hwy, Ridgefield Offices in Ridgefield and Newtown 203-438-4848 Info@DrRoseann.com • DrRoseann.com Our highly trained and experienced therapists utilize a variety of brain-based tools and techniques that allow the CNS to calm down so one can address their issues without heightened anxiety. We specialize in pediatrics, parenting and supporting individuals with chronic issues. See ad, page 8.

ROBIN ORDAN, LCSW

Family, Child, Individual and Couples Therapy Old Greenwich/Stamford 203-561-8535 • RobinOrdanLCSW.com Robin has more than 18 years of experience working with families and children. Specializing in divorce, parent/child conflict, grief, attachment/bonding, child development and parenting. See ad, page 13.

NANCY SCHERLONG, LCSW

Coaching/Psychotherapy/Consulting Offices in Danbury and Ridgefield 914-572-3167 • WellnessMetaphors.com Manage stress with relaxation techniques. Rediscover your creativity through writing and the expressive arts. Resolve trauma with EMDR, IFS or SE. Or book an experiential workshop! Nancy has over 20 years of experience with children, families, groups, adults and corporate wellness programs. See ad, page 35.

REIKI GIGI BENANTI, USUI REIKI MASTER Angelic Healing Center 7 Morgan Ave, Norwalk 203-852-1150 • AngelHealReiki.com

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 JiivaCenter.com Berta Prevosti is a Usui and Karuna Reiki Master and has been practicing Reiki for over 20 years. We also have several experienced Reiki Masters and practitioners. We offer private Reiki sessions for physical and emotional pain. We also have ongoing Reiki classes that are taught in the traditional Usui method by Berta. See ad, page 25.

PUT IT TOGETHER, LLC

714 Main St South, Woodbury 203-263-7836 PutItTogetherLLC.com PutItTogetherLLC@cs.com Incorporating environmentally sound options into a traditional interior design business, I can show you great options for low to no VOC exposure in your homes. Offering interior design, feng shui and environmental consultations. See ad, page 38.

TURNING POINT REIKI LLC JoAnn Inserra Duncan, MS,Infrared RMT Thermal Imaging (DITI) Digital 100B Danbury Rd, Ste 101, Ridgefield THERMOGRAPHY oﬀers safe, FDA approved full body 203-438-3050 or breast screening. TurningPointReiki.com WHOLE HEALTH TurningPointShare.com Non Invasive • No Radiati on THERMOGRAPHY LLC  JoAnn uses intuition, 8 experi• Possible years earlier breast Rachel Mazzarelli, MS, CCT ence and a deep spiritual Locations throughout Fairfield County, cancer detection vs mammogram connection in her Reiki, IET Southbury, New Haven, Milford and New York and Reconnective Healing for detecti • Clinical imaging ng and 203-257-3785 sessions.monitoring Specializing in for of a care number diseases WHThermography@gmail.com individuals withand cancer, Lyme injuries. physical WholeHealthThermography.com disease and back pain. All Reiki levels taught. Rachel Mazzarelli

Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging (DITI) is an FDAapproved, noninvasive, 203-257-3785 no-radiation screening for the TAI CHI/QIGONG whole body. It offers possible Oﬃces throughout earlier detection of breast Fairﬁ eld County, Southbury, JAMPA STEWART, MSOM, LAC  disease and can aid in diagnosis New Haven, Milford, Board Certified Acupuncturist and improved prognosis of many health and New York Valley Spirit Wellness Center conditions and injuries.

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6 Green Hill Rd, Washington Depot whthermography@gmail.com 860-619-2788 www.wholehealththermography.com ValleySpiritCoop.com TRANSFORMATIVE Develop physical and mental fitness and find a new harmony of the mind, body and spirit using these ancient Chinese movement arts. Starting with basic movements, warm-up techniques and breathing exercises, you will learn a set of flowing natural movements done slowly with calmness, balance and awareness. Weekly classes, weekend workshops and retreats.

Gigi is an experienced Reiki Master/Teacher. She offers all levels of Reiki training monthly. All classes and Reiki sessions include the latest techniques including Karuna, Angelic and Jikiden Reiki.

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HEALING EVERYDAY ALCHEMY LLC

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SOUL HEALING JOURNEY, LLC Eilis Philpott Fairfield • 203-767-5954 Eilis@SoulHealingJourney.com SoulHealingJourney.com

Eilis is a master healer and teacher and certified in numerous modalities as both a practitioner and teacher. She offers soul-level healing, which clears any blocks, obstacles and challenges that are preventing you from living your life to its fullest potential. See ad, page 35.

SALT OF THE EARTH THERAPEUTIC SPA

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787 Main St S, Woodbury 203-586-1172 NaturalSaltHealing.com

JIIVA YOGA, REIKI AND MASSAGE CENTER

Berta Prevosti, Usui and Karuna Reiki Master 2900 Main St, Ste 1A, Stratford 203-345-7747 • JiivaCenter.com Jiiva is in the business of building a community for yoga and healing. We offer yoga classes, a school of Reiki, private Reiki treatments, traditional massage therapy, Thai massage, meditation classes, workshops and community events. See ad, page 25.

SALTANA CAVE HIMALAYAN SALT SPA 590 Danbury Rd, Ridgefield 203-969-4327 SaltanaCave.com

Fairfield County’s first and only therapeutic Himalayan salt cave provides relief from respiratory issues such as allergies, asthma, and side effects of smoking and pollution. Salt is naturally anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal. See ad, page 14.

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We offer a unique blend of integrative medicine, classes and self-care options. Therapies include Chinese and Japanesestyle acupuncture, Chinese herbal and Ayurvedic medicine, Asian bodywork, massage and intuitive healing. Classes include meditation, tai chi, yoga, qigong, mat Pilates, Barre, hand drumming, ballroom dance and more. Jampa Stewart, LAc, and Pauline Koinis, LMT, head our team of experienced therapists and teachers.

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August 2019

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LOVING OURSELVES MADLY

203TLC 19 Anatta 9

Practice Intentional Self-Love

The Angel Cooperative

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Medical

The Breiner Whole-Body Health Center: Dental

Natural Health & Wellness Center

Nature’s Temptations Healthy Food Market

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New Morning Market

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Clean Food 4 Ur Type/ Eliana Grubel

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eler thoughts is step one. Replacing them with kinder, more compassionate and loving thoughts is step two. When our minds call us ugly, we must sink into our hearts and remind ourselves that we are beautiful, as we are. When our minds insist we’re weak, we must declare our strength. Every single thought and word that speaks to our worth is a powerful and sustaining reflection of self-love. Substitute self-abuse with love as often as possible and then watch our lives change in powerful ways.

Harbor Harvest

Set boundaries and enforce them. To love ourselves, we

t’s not enough to wish for more selflove. We must be intentional about creating it and commit to loving ourselves by practicing these habits every day.

Don’t believe our thoughts. Our minds lie to us all the time,

especially where our self-worth is concerned. The moment we become aware we are mentally abusing ourselves, we can refuse to believe these thoughts. The fact is, we are worthy and enough exactly as we are. Any thoughts that contradict this truth are lies. We must not go to war with our mind, but should definitely get in the habit of challenging our mind’s lies and not believing them when they run amok.

Replace self-abuse with self-love. Not believing our cru-

have to set clear boundaries with the people in our lives. State what works and what doesn’t work. If we don’t clearly speak our boundaries, people will trample them, and we’ll only have ourselves to blame. Boundaries show respect for all involved. A lack of boundaries will almost certainly lead to resentment.

Make time for happy places. We all have places that tend to

bring us peace and/or joy: a walk among the trees, curled up with a good book, coffee with a close friend. Make time for these experiences. Every second we spend giving energy to the people, places and things that bring us joy is a second of dedicated self-love. It matters. Just as important, pay attention to the people, places and things that are depleting, that feel unhealthy and toxic, and give less energy to them. Knowing what to eliminate can be as impactful as knowing what to add. How we love ourselves is our responsibility. The greater commitment we make to self-love, the greater chance we create of living a more peaceful, joyful and meaningful life. Scott Stabile is the author of Big Love: The Power of Living with a Wide-Open Heart. Learn more at ScottStabile.com. 62

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Victoria Shaw, PhD

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David L. Lerner, DDS/ Center for Holistic Dentistry

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New discovery stops colds “It worked!” sinuses. Attorney Donna Blight had he exclaimed. a 2-day sinus headache. When her “The cold never CopperZap arrived, she tried it. “I am got going.” It shocked!” she said. “My head cleared, worked again no more headache, no more congestion.” every time. He Some users say copper stops nighthas not had a time stuffiness if used just before bed. single cold for 7 One man said, “Best sleep I’ve had in years since. years.” New research: Copper stops colds if used early. He asked Copper can also stop flu if used early cientists recently discovered a relatives and friends to try it. They said and for several days. Lab technicians way to kill viruses and bacteria. it worked for them, too, so he patented placed 25 million live flu viruses on a Now thousands of people CopperZap™ and put it on the market. CopperZap. No viruses were found alive are using it to stop colds and flu. Soon hundreds of people had tried it soon after. Colds start when cold viruses get in and given feedback. Nearly 100% said Dr. Bill Keevil led one of the teams your nose. Viruses multiply fast. If you the copper stops colds if used within confirming the don’t stop them early, they spread in 3 hours after the first sign. Even up to discovery. He placed your airways and cause misery. 2 days, if they still get the cold it is millions of disease In hundreds of studies, EPA and unimilder than usual and they feel better. germs on copper. versity researchers have confirmed that Users wrote things like, “It “They started to die viruses and bacteria die almost instantly stopped my cold right away,” and “Is literally as soon as when touched by copper. it supposed to work that fast?” they touched the That’s why ancient Greeks and Egyp“What a wonderful thing,” wrote surface,” he said. tians used copper to purify water and Physician’s Assistant Julie. “No more People have even Dr. Bill Keevil: Copper quickly kills used copper on cold heal wounds. They didn’t know about colds for me!” cold viruses. viruses and bacteria, but now we do. Pat McAllister, 70, received one sores and say it can Scientists say the high conductance for Christmas and called it “one of the completely prevent outbreaks. of copper disrupts the electrical balance best presents ever. This little jewel really The handle is curved and finely in a microbe cell and destroys the cell in works.” textured to improve contact. It kills seconds. Now thousands of users have simply germs picked up on fingers and hands to Tests by the stopped getting colds. protect you and your family. EPA (EnvironPeople often use Copper even kills deadly germs that mental Protection CopperZap preventivehave become resistant to antibiotics. If Agency) show ly. Frequent flier Karen you are near sick people, a moment of germs die fast Gauci used to get colds handling it may keep serious infection on copper. So after crowded flights. away. It may even save a life. some hospitals Though skeptical, she The EPA says copper still works tried copper for tried it several times a even when tarnished. It kills hundreds of touch surfaces day on travel days for 2 different disease germs so it can prevent Sinus trouble, stuffiness, cold sores. months. “Sixteen flights serious or even fatal illness. like faucets and doorknobs. This cut the spread of MRSA and not a sniffle!” she exclaimed. CopperZap is made in the U.S. of and other illnesses by over half, and Businesswoman Rosaleen says when pure copper. It has a 90-day full money saved lives. people are sick around her she uses back guarantee when used as directed The strong scientific evidence gave CopperZap morning and night. “It saved to stop a cold. It is $69.95. Get $10 off inventor Doug Cornell an idea. When me last holidays,” she said. “The kids each CopperZap with code NATA11. Go to www.CopperZap.com or call he felt a cold about to start he fashioned had colds going round and round, but toll-free 1-888-411-6114. a smooth copper probe and rubbed it not me.” Buy once, use forever. gently in his nose for 60 seconds. Some users say it also helps with

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